The Health Benefits of Drinking Tea

Many people enjoy drinking tea, which can be served hot or iced. But the benefits of this beverage go far beyond simple refreshment. For one thing, it can be a flavorful, no-calorie way to help you stay hydrated (if you don’t add sugar). What’s more, drinking tea can actually improve your health.

Many of the key health properties of tea are believed to be related to its polyphenol (antioxidant) and phytochemical components. Some of these benefits may include:

• Inhibition of oxidation (the human body’s version of rust) — Antioxidants protect against cellular damage caused by harmful molecules known as free radicals. This damage has been linked to premature aging, cardiovascular disease, and many types of cancer.
• Accelerated fat burning — Certain antioxidants (catechins) can increase the body’s ability to burn fat as fuel, leading to enhanced muscle endurance and weight loss.
• Reduced risk of Parkinson’s disease — When considered along with other factors, such as age, smoking history, physical activity level, and body mass index, regular tea drinking has been linked to a lower risk of Parkinson’s disease.
• Strong bones — Green tea, in particular, has been found to improve bone mineral density and strength.
• Protection from the effects of ultraviolet (UV) light — Beneficial catechins can make the body more resistant to the effects of UV radiation, including cellular degeneration and premature skin aging.
• Less caffeine than coffee — Per serving, traditional teas contain approximately 50 percent less caffeine than coffee, making it easier to achieve an energy boost when needed without overdoing it and interfering with your sleep at night.

With all of that said, tea is not a miracle cure, and you shouldn’t rely solely on tea consumption to keep yourself healthy. Furthermore, all teas are not created equal, and in many cases the amount of “good stuff” is determined by the type, processing, and brewing of the tea. The takeaway: at the very least, tea should be safe to consume in reasonable amounts. So, feel free to brew up a batch and savor it, hot or cold.

If you’d like more information on how to maintain and improve your health, please contact or visit South Tampa Immediate Care. Our walk-in clinic is conveniently located on South Howard Avenue in Tampa, FL, and no appointments are necessary.