By Reneé D. Campbell
With all of the diets in this world it’s hard to keep up with the latest brands. You ask yourself, “What else can I possibly try to lose weight and get healthy?” Have you tried tea? Of course physical activity and monitoring your food intake are the best ways to keep your weight down and off for good, but tea is an alternative to give you a jumpstart to good health.
Tea is nearly 5,000 years old and comes from an evergreen shrub called “Camellia sinensis.” Tea bushes are kept at three feet and produce four main types of tea: Black, Green, Oolong and White. Of these over 3,000 varieties of tea are produced each with their own unique qualities.
Chamomile tea, prepared with dried flowers, is one of the richest sources of dietary antioxidants. The Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry reports the consumption of chamomile tea may help prevent the development of diabetic complications like vision loss and nerve or kidney damage.
The National Cancer Institute has found that the antioxidant catechins, which are found in tea to prevent specific enzyme activities from causing cancer. Studies have also shown that catechins reduce the incidence and size of tumors by decreasing the growth of tumor cells.
A very rare tea from China, White tea, is the least processed and produces the most antioxidants. This is the best for your body. Some of the heart benefits of drinking tea include lower blood pressure and cholesterol. For the most benefit from tea, choose varieties that are higher in quality and comprised of loose leafs.
Don’t forget on your next trip to the grocery store to pick up a box of tea. Tea may just be the motivation you need to shed those pounds. Pour yourself a cup of tea and sip away. It could be your start to a healthier and happier life.
|
