There is nothing more relaxing to me than drinking a cup of tea on a cold Portland day. That quiet time in the morning or a relaxing break during the day with warm tea is heavenly. As we learned in yesterdays post, “Red with Anger” it is helpful to have “me time” during stressful times in the day. Tea is not only relaxing it is beneficial to your health.
Studies have found that a lot of green or black teas contain antioxidants called “polyphenols.” These nutrients help protect cells from cell-damaging “free radicals” in the body. Preventing damage that can lead to blood clot formation, atherosclerosis, and even types of cancer. Tea contains about 8 to 10 times more polyphenols or antioxidants than fruits and vegetables. So drinking a cup or two a day can be of great benefit to your health.
Other health benefits thought to be improved when drinking 1 to 2 cups or green or black tea a day:
- decreases your risk for heart disease and stroke
- lowers your total and LDL “bad” cholesterol
- helps you recover faster from heart attacks
- help boost metabolism to aid weight loss
- slow the growth of tumors
- protect bones
- fight bad breath
- improve skin
- protect against Parkinson’s disease
- delay the onset of diabetes
- help prevent skin cancer
So curl up with your favorite mug of tea, take deep breaths, reduce your anger, improve your health, and enjoy your day.
Even my cat Tangaray likes tea
In health,
Tara Arnold, RN
