DRINKS
7 Health Benefits Of Taking Black Tea
Black tea is one of the most commonly consumed beverages worldwide, known for its rich flavour and numerous health benefits. Derived from the leaves of the “Camellia sinensis” plant, black tea undergoes a process of oxidation that gives it its characteristic dark colour and strong taste.
Black tea is not only popular for its refreshing qualities but also for the potential health benefits it offers. We will explore the various benefits of taking black tea in this article. Also, we will discuss the impact it has on heart health, mental well-being, digestive health, and more.
1. Rich in Antioxidants
One of the primary benefits of black tea is its high antioxidant content. Antioxidants are compounds that help to neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, which can cause cellular damage and contribute to chronic diseases.
Black tea is particularly rich in polyphenols, such as flavonoids, which are powerful antioxidants. Regular consumption of black tea can help to reduce oxidative stress, lower the risk of chronic diseases, and promote overall health.
Additionally, these antioxidants can help to improve skin health, giving it a natural glow and reducing signs of ageing.
2. Improves Heart Health
Black tea has been extensively studied for its positive effects on heart health. The flavonoids in black tea have been shown to improve heart function and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Regular consumption of black tea can help to lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and improve blood vessel function. Studies have also shown that drinking black tea may help to reduce the risk of stroke.
The anti-inflammatory properties of black tea further contribute to heart health by reducing inflammation in the arteries and improving overall circulation.
3. Boosts Mental Alertness and Focus
Another notable benefit of black tea is its ability to improve mental alertness and focus. Black tea contains caffeine, a natural stimulant that can help to increase concentration and reduce fatigue.
Unlike coffee, which contains higher levels of caffeine, black tea provides a more moderate and sustained energy boost without causing the jitteriness or crash that some people experience with coffee.
In addition to caffeine, black tea contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which promotes relaxation and enhances focus. The combination of caffeine and L-theanine in black tea can help to improve cognitive function, making it an excellent beverage for enhancing productivity and mental clarity.
4. Supports Digestive Health
Black tea can also benefit the digestive system. The polyphenols in black tea have been found to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which are essential for a healthy digestive system. A balanced gut microbiome can improve digestion, enhance nutrient absorption, and support overall gut health.
Furthermore, black tea has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe digestive discomfort and reduce symptoms of conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Drinking black tea regularly may also help to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut, reducing the risk of infections and other digestive issues.
5. Aids in Weight Management
For those looking to manage their weight, black tea can be a helpful addition to their diet. Black tea is low in calories, making it an excellent alternative to sugary drinks.
Moreover, the polyphenols in black tea have been shown to help with weight management by increasing metabolism and promoting fat oxidation. Some studies suggest that the consumption of black tea can help to reduce body fat, particularly in the abdominal area.
Additionally, black tea can help to regulate blood sugar levels, reducing cravings and helping to prevent overeating.
6. Enhances Immune Function
Black tea is also known for its immune-boosting properties. The antioxidants and other bioactive compounds in black tea can help to strengthen the immune system and protect the body against infections.
Black tea contains alkylamines, which are known to boost immune response by increasing the production of immune cells. Regular consumption of black tea may also help to reduce the severity and duration of colds and flu.
Additionally, the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of black tea can help to support the body’s natural defences against pathogens.
7. Promotes Oral Health
Taking black tea can also contribute to better oral health. Black tea contains fluoride, a mineral that is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and preventing cavities.
The polyphenols in black tea also have antibacterial properties that can help to reduce the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, preventing plaque formation and reducing the risk of gum disease.
Additionally, black tea can help to freshen breath by reducing the growth of bacteria that cause bad breath.
In conclusion, black tea offers health benefits that make it a valuable addition to any diet. From its rich antioxidant content to its positive effects on heart health, mental alertness, digestive health, and more, black tea is a beneficial beverage.
Whether enjoyed hot or cold, with or without milk, black tea can be a delightful and healthful choice for those looking to improve their overall well-being.
As with any food or drink, moderation is key, and it is essential to consume black tea as part of a balanced diet to reap its full benefits.
If you would like to see a visual illustration of the health benefits of black tea, visit here.
To increase your daily water intake, try incorporating tips to drink more water daily, such as tracking how much you consume and replacing other beverages with water. Since your body is composed of about 70% water, drinking enough is crucial for maintaining optimal health.
Water serves many essential functions in your body, including regulating electrolyte balance and blood pressure, lubricating joints, controlling body temperature, and supporting cell health. Although staying hydrated is widely recognized as important, it can sometimes be challenging.
By following practical tips to drink more water daily, you can overcome these challenges and ensure you stay properly hydrated. Remember, consistently applying tips to drink more water daily will help you meet your hydration goals and support your overall well-being.
Here are 12 simple tips to drink more water daily
1. Understand Your Fluid Needs
Before increasing your water intake, it’s essential to understand your body’s fluid requirements. While the common recommendation is 64 ounces (1,920 ml) or 8 cups per day, this is not scientifically based.
Medical practitioners advise that men consume 3,700 ml and women about 2,700 ml of fluid daily, including water, other drinks, and food. However, fluid needs vary depending on factors like activity level, location, and health status.
By applying tips to drink more water daily, especially if you exercise regularly or live in a hot climate, you can better meet your hydration needs.
2. Set a Daily Goal
Setting a specific daily water intake goal is one of the most effective tips to drink more water daily. The act of setting a goal can motivate you to make lasting positive changes. To ensure success, your goals should be SMART: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-bound.
For example, you might set a SMART goal to drink 960 ml of water per day. Tracking your progress can keep you motivated and help turn this goal into a habit. By following these tips to drink more water daily, you’ll steadily increase your water intake.
3. Keep a Reusable Water Bottle with You
Keeping a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day is another practical tip to drink more water daily. Having a water bottle on hand allows you to drink water anytime, whether you’re running errands, travelling, or at work.
The visual reminder of a water bottle nearby can prompt you to drink more. Plus, using a reusable bottle is environmentally friendly compared to single-use plastic bottles.
By incorporating this and other tips to drink more water daily, staying hydrated becomes much more manageable.
4. Set Reminders
Setting reminders is a simple yet effective tip to drink more water daily. Use an app or your smartphone’s alarm to remind you to take a few sips of water every 30 minutes, or to finish and refill your glass each hour.
These reminders can be particularly helpful if you often forget to drink or are too busy. By consistently using these tips to drink more water daily, you can effortlessly increase your water consumption.
5. Replace Other Drinks with Water
One of the most beneficial tips to drink more water daily is to replace sugary drinks like soda and sports drinks with water. These beverages often contain added sugars, which can negatively impact your health.
For optimal health, it’s recommended to limit added sugar to less than 5% of your daily calorie intake. By replacing sugary drinks with water, you can reduce your calorie intake and possibly aid in weight loss. This is one of the easiest and most cost-effective tips to drink more water daily.
6. Drink One Glass of Water Before Each Meal
Drinking a glass of water before each meal is a simple tip to drink more water daily. If you eat three meals a day, this habit will add an extra 3 cups (720 ml) to your daily water intake. Additionally, sometimes your body may confuse thirst with hunger.
Drinking water before meals can help you determine whether you’re truly hungry. If you’re trying to lose weight, this tip can also help you consume fewer calories during meals.
7. Get a Water Filter
Investing in a water filter can encourage you to drink more water daily, especially if you have concerns about tap water quality. Filters are available for various budgets, from whole-home systems to affordable filtering pitchers.
In addition to potentially improving the taste of your water, filters can reduce contaminants like bacteria, lead, and arsenic. By making filtered water more accessible, this tip to drink more water daily can help you stay hydrated without the environmental impact of bottled water.
8. Flavour Your Water
If you find plain water unappealing, flavouring your water is a creative tip to drink more water daily. Using a fruit-infuser water bottle is a healthy option, allowing you to add natural flavours like cucumber-lime or strawberry-kiwi.
You can also use water enhancers, but be cautious of those containing sugar or artificial sweeteners. By experimenting with different flavours, you can make water more enjoyable, making it easier to follow tips to drink more water daily.
9. Drink One Glass of Water Per Hour at Work
To ensure steady hydration during a typical 8-hour workday, drink one glass of water per hour. This habit will add up to 8 cups (1,920 ml) of water by the end of your workday.
Start by filling your cup as soon as you arrive at work, then drink and refill at the top of each hour. This consistent approach is one of the most straightforward tips to drink more water daily.
10. Sip Throughout the Day
Sipping water consistently throughout the day is an effective tip to drink more water daily. Keeping a glass of water or a reusable bottle within your line of sight can serve as a constant reminder to stay hydrated.
Regular sips can also prevent dry mouth and help keep your breath fresh. By incorporating this tip to drink more water daily, you’ll easily meet your fluid goals without feeling overwhelmed.
11. Eat More Foods High in Water
Increasing your intake of water-rich foods is another helpful tip to drink more water daily. Fruits and vegetables like lettuce, celery, zucchini, watermelon, and cantaloupe are high in water content and also provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. By eating more of these foods, you not only boost your hydration but also improve your overall health.
12. Drink One Glass of Water When You Wake Up and Before Bed
Starting and ending your day with a glass of water is a simple yet effective tip to drink more water daily. A cold glass of water in the morning can help wake you up and increase your alertness, while drinking water before bed can prevent a dry mouth and bad breath overnight. This routine is an easy way to ensure you’re getting enough water each day.
Conclusively…
Adequate water intake is essential for maintaining good health. Most people need 2,700–3,700 ml of fluid daily, including water, other beverages, and food. However, it can be challenging to maintain regular water consumption, especially with a busy lifestyle or a dislike for plain water.
But by applying these 12 simple tips to drink more water daily, you can significantly boost your hydration and support your overall well-being.
For more tips, check here.
Following our previous article on juice cleanses, here are some refreshing and nutritious juice cleanse recipes to jumpstart your day or provide a much-needed afternoon pick-me-up. Simply add all ingredients to your juicer, blend well, and serve chilled for the best enjoyment.
1. Beets Juice
This vibrant juice gets its beautiful colour from betalains, natural plant pigments found in beets known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Beets also boost your fibre intake, aiding digestion, blood sugar control, and weight management.
Ingredients:
- 1½ cm fresh ginger
- 3 beets
- 3 carrots
- 3 stalks celery
2. Apple, Pear, and Spinach Juice
This juice is a delightful blend of sweet and refreshing flavours. Pears and apples provide essential vitamins and minerals, while spinach adds a powerful dose of antioxidants.
Ingredients:
- 3 large Packham pears, quartered
- 3 large Granny Smith apples, quartered
- 100g baby spinach
- 5 fresh mint sprigs
- Ice cubes (optional)
- Mint sprigs (for garnish, optional)
3. Carrot and Orange Juice
This classic combination packs a powerful punch of nutrients. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, fibre, vitamin K, and potassium, while oranges lend a healthy dose of immune-boosting Vitamin C.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds carrots, trimmed and scrubbed
- 8 oranges, peeled
4. Ginger Aid Immune Juice
This detoxifying juice cleanse recipe is perfect for fighting off illness. Cucumber keeps you hydrated, while lemon cleanses the body and cuts through the bitterness of greens. Kale is a storehouse of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, and garlic helps reduce the risk of diseases.
Ingredients:
- 1 bunch kale
- ½ bunch parsley or cilantro
- 1 green apple, cut and seeded
- 2-inch piece of ginger
- 1 clove garlic, peeled
- 1 lemon or lime, peeled
- 1 whole cucumber, ends removed
5. Spring Clean Green Juice
This green juice is packed with iron-rich spinach, antioxidant-rich pineapple and mango, and celery for healthy digestion.
Ingredients:
- 1 large bunch Swiss chard
- 1 large handful of spinach or kale
- 2–3 large stalks celery
- Small handful of fresh basil or parsley
- Small handful of mango or pineapple (¼ – ½ cup)
- 1 small cucumber or ½ large cucumber
- 1 small ginger root
- 1 lemon (peeled)
6. Raspberry and Pineapple Juice Cleanse (Afternoon Pick-Me-Up)
This spicy juice gives you a natural energy boost to fight that afternoon slump. Raspberries offer a dose of vitamin C, while pineapple adds a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raspberries
- ½ pineapple, peeled and cored
- ½ lemon, peeled
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 knob ginger
7. Tropical Mint and Lemo Juice
You could transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this refreshing juice! Mint provides vitamin A, and lemon adds a touch of vitamin C for an overall health boost.
Ingredients:
- 2 stalks celery
- ½ cucumber
- 2 cups spinach
- 3 cups mint leaves
- 1 cup pineapple
- ½ lemon
8. Iron Boost Juice Cleanse
This iron-rich juice is perfect for boosting your energy levels. Broccoli provides a substantial amount of iron, while celery aids digestion and detoxification. Cucumbers and apples add essential vitamins and minerals.
Ingredients:
- ½ cucumber
- 2 stalks celery
- 1 cup romaine lettuce
- 1 cup broccoli
- 1 green apple
- ½ lime
What juice recipes are best for a cleanse?
A juice cleanse can be a full-on commitment or a gradual transition. However, the foundation of most juice cleanse recipes is a blend of fruit and vegetable juices.
These blends often include leafy greens like kale and spinach, along with other nutrient-rich ingredients such as carrots, beets, green apples, lemons, and more.
What are the best fruits for a juice cleanse?
Lemons are a powerful detox fruit. Just one cup of fresh lemon juice contains a whopping 187 percent of your daily recommended vitamin C! They’re also a great source of potassium, even more so than apples and grapes.
To reap the full benefits of lemons, squeeze some into your morning water or add them to fresh salads and fish dishes.
What is allowed during a juice cleanse?
When following this eating plan, focus on consuming small portions of specific, nutrient-dense foods. Begin your meal with a warming bowl of vegetable broth, which provides hydration and essential minerals. Include crisp, vitamin-rich carrots and fibrous celery stalks to add crunch and promote satiety.
For a refreshing option, prepare a small raw salad using fresh, organic greens and vegetables. This salad will provide enzymes and micronutrients to support your digestive health. If you’re craving something sweet, choose a crisp, juicy apple, which offers natural sugars and fibre to help stabilize your blood sugar levels.
Alternatively, enjoy half an avocado for its healthy fats and creamy texture. This nutrient-dense fruit will help you feel fuller for longer and support various bodily functions. To satisfy hunger pangs between meals, consume a small handful of raw nuts. These provide protein, healthy fats, and minerals to keep you energized.
Remember to prioritize raw and organic foods whenever possible, as they retain more of their natural nutrients and are free from harmful pesticides. Keep your portions small to allow your digestive system to work efficiently.
Lastly, ensure you get plenty of rest during this period. Adequate sleep supports your body’s natural healing processes and helps regulate hunger hormones, making it easier to adhere to this eating plan.
What not to do during a juice cleanse
- Binge beforehand: It’s tempting to indulge in unhealthy foods before a juice cleanse, but this can make the transition more difficult and less effective.
- Worry about protein: While protein is essential for overall health, a short-term juice cleanse can be done without excessive protein intake. Your body will still have stored protein to function.
- Starve yourself: Juice cleanses are meant to cleanse and detoxify, not starve you. Ensure you’re consuming enough calories to maintain energy levels.
- Cut out coffee: If you’re a coffee drinker, try to reduce your caffeine intake gradually before starting a juice cleanse. Sudden withdrawal can lead to headaches and fatigue.
- Stay sedentary: While a juice cleanse might limit your energy levels, aim to engage in light physical activity like walking or yoga.
- Go back to old habits: After completing a juice cleanse, avoid immediately returning to your previous unhealthy eating habits. Gradually incorporate whole, nutritious foods back into your diet.
What are the side effects of a juice cleanse?
Going on a juice cleanse can increase your risk of developing severe health complications. These risks include dangerous dehydration, sudden spikes in blood sugar levels, and potential kidney problems. Most people find juice cleanse recipes unsustainable for extended periods, leading to quick abandonment of the regimen.
Rather than subjecting your body to just a juice cleanse, prioritize proper hydration throughout the day. Opt for healthier alternatives such as unsweetened tea and plain water. These beverages will keep you well-hydrated without the risks associated with juice cleanses.
Sometimes, choosing water and unsweetened tea over juice cleanse recipes helps you maintain better control over your body’s hydration and nutrient intake. This approach supports your overall health more effectively and sustainably than restrictive juice-only diets.
For more articles like this, visit here.
Rema, Omah Lay & Shallipopi Bring Afrobeats To EA Sports FC 25 Soundtrack
EA Sports has once again brought football and music together by unveiling the soundtrack for the 25th edition of EA...
Has Seyi Vibez Parted Ways With Record Label Boss Dapper? Here Is What We Know
Nigerian star Seyi Vibez recently sparked reactions on social media by declaring himself an “Individual artist” and also unfollowing his...
Tems Throws Ceremonial First Pitch At White Sox Game
Afrobeats sensation Tems made a memorable appearance at Guaranteed Rate Field yesterday, adding a touch of star power to the...
BBNaija9: Sooj Wins HoH Challenge; Handi, Kassia, Shaun & Wanni Get Strikes
Sooj had a stellar performance in the BBNaija 9 Head of House challenge. It transformed his week into a triumphant...
Watch Rema Discuss Early Success, “HEIS” Album & His Place Among Afrobeats’ Greats
Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Rema recently graced “The Breakfast Club” with his presence. He discussed his latest musical, “HEIS.” During this...
How To Stay Safe While Traveling Solo
You’re about to embark on one of your biggest adventures yet, and you’ve pushed aside all fears. You’re travelling solo....
What Is The Future Of Artificial Intelligence In Businesses?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is quickly reshaping the business landscape, driving innovation, boosting productivity, and revolutionizing how companies function. As technology...
15 Daring Steps To Become A Sexually Confident Man
Are you a man seeking sexual confidence? Do you often feel like you don’t satisfy your partner sexually? Get in...
How To Embrace Being Single
We live in a world that romanticizes intimate relationships. Society pushes the importance of coupling up from a young age....
10 Restaurants In Lagos Mainland Where 10k Is More Than Enough
While Lagos boasts many dining options, many individuals find it challenging to discover restaurants that offer satisfying meals at affordable...
Juice Cleanses: What Are The Pros And Cons?
Iyabo Ojo Confirms Daughter’s Engagement To Tanzanian Lover
8 Most Common Sexual Fantasies And What To Do About Them
6 Nigerian Music Genres To Explore
Self-Care Practices: What Are 10 Ways To Take Care Of Yourself?
Food Photography: How To Take Perfect Pictures Of Your Food
8 Best Healthy Juice Cleanse Recipes
10 Mindfulness Exercises For Your Daily Routine
7 Ways To Stay Stylish On A Budget In Nigeria
Netflix Teases First Look Images From Its Acquired Nigerian Epic “Lisabi: The Uprising”
-
ARTS & CULTURE6 days agoBolanle Austen-Peters To Launch Lagos International Theatre Festival
-
ENTERTAINMENT6 days agoPortable Says He Turned Down A $6000 Show To Hang Out With Davido
-
MUSIC4 days ago7 Unforgettable Songs By Mohbad
-
EVENTS5 days agoTyla Wins Best Afrobeats At The 2024 VMAs
-
BEAUTY6 days agoSouth African Rising Star, Tyla Graces ELLE Magazine Cover
-
MOVIES7 days agoGenesis Pictures Teams With Silverbird To Distribute AY’s New Film, “The Waiter”
-
MOVIES6 days agoTobi Bakre & Gbubemi Ejeye Lead Drama-Thriller “Farmer’s Bride”
-
MOVIES4 days agoTed Abudu Unveils Her New Movie, “A Night In 2005” To Premier This October