Chinese tea is categorized into six major types based on its production principles and processes: green tea, black tea, yellow tea, white tea, oolong tea, and dark tea. Additional processed teas, like floral teas, have also been developed from these six types. China leads the world in green tea consumption, followed by black tea. However, globally, black tea is the most consumed.
According to the Tea Research Institute, tea has six confirmed health benefits:
1. Antioxidant Properties
Studies reveal that green tea possesses significantly higher antioxidant activity than 21 tested fruits and vegetables. Tea extracts have been found to exhibit stronger antioxidant activity than vitamins C and E. Therefore, drinking tea can prevent aging and cancer caused by oxidative damage and enhance immune function.
2. Cardiovascular Disease Prevention
Research indicates that regular tea consumption not only helps lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels but also reduces the mortality rate from coronary heart disease. Black tea and oolong tea are particularly effective in this regard.
3. Cancer Prevention
One of the health benefits of tea is cancer prevention, including lung, esophageal, liver, and colon cancers. Green tea is especially effective due to its rich catechin content. An epidemiological study in Japan tracking over 8,000 people for 10 years found that drinking 10 cups of green tea daily can delay cancer onset by 7.3 years in women and 3.2 years in men.
4. Anti-Allergy and Dental Health
Research shows that catechins in tea can alleviate allergies, making it beneficial for those allergic to seafood or pollen. The polyphenolic compounds in tea can kill cavity-causing bacteria and prevent them from adhering to the teeth, thus preventing cavities. This is why tea polyphenols are often added to toothpaste. Additionally, the fluoride in tea helps strengthen teeth.
5. Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease
Recent studies suggest that regular tea consumption can reduce the risk of cognitive decline in the elderly. Those over 70 who drink 2-3 cups of tea daily have a significantly lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
6. Protection Against Smoking Damage
Professor Han Chi from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention's Nutrition and Food Safety Institute states, "Drinking tea can repair DNA damage caused by smoking, and this has been confirmed through human experiments. This is considered a leading conclusion worldwide."
By incorporating tea into your daily routine, you can take advantage of these remarkable health benefits and support your overall well-being.
