Health Benefits

Fluid Balance: While most benefits of tea still require further scientific research, there is universal acceptance in tea's role in maintaining fluid balance. Water plays a critical role in regulating body temperature, transporting nutrients and hormones to cells, and cushioning of the joints. You may of heard the adage to drink 64 ounces of water each day? This is why - to make up for the loss of water we lose each day through normal body processes. Tea helps to achieve that goal.

Cancer: A National Cancer Institute study found that both green and black tea protected human and animal cells from turning cancerous and discouraged established cancer cells from multiplying. Now, scientists are testing tea extracts much as they would a drug. Most studies seem to find a reduction of risk particularly in lung, colon and skin cancer. These results are promising and we wait for further human-based studies to confirm this information.

Heart Disease: Studies in animals suggest that tea can lower serum cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure. Tea also contains flavonoids which help to keep arteries clear. In a study of elderly men, drinking tea appeared to play a part with a lower number of deaths from coronary heart disease.

Stroke: Polyphenols from green tea seem to lower blood pressure. In stroke-prone rats, life expectancy has been extended. In a Dutch study, men drinking more than four cups of tea per day were associated with a 69% reduced risk of stroke.

Fluoride and Oral Care: Tea is a natural source of fluoride. It has also been found to prevent cavities and gum disease by discouraging plaque. Plaque is a combination of various forms of bacteria that grows in your mouth and sticks to your teeth, breaking down the enamel, creating tooth decay and gingivitis. The polyphenols found in tea prevent bacteria from growing. Tea also seems to prevent a bacterial enzyme that turns sugar into a sticky substance that allows plaque to stick to the teeth. While both black and green tea has the polyphenols to keep your teeth healthy, green tea seems to have more fluoride than black teas. Don't give up your regular dental hygiene plan but a cup or glass of tea would certainly help.

Caffeine: A natural component of tea, coffee and cocoa, caffeine is also added to some soft drinks and medications. Caffeine is generally safe when consumed in low quantities. Tea has a mere 40mg per cup compared to 80mg in coffee. These levels are dependent on the blends and strength of a brew. Tea can be naturally decaffeinated right at home