The Health Benefits of Tea

People drink tea for a variety of reasons: to stay alert, soothe an aching throat and avoid high-calorie beverages. It turns out tea drinkers may be gaining a lot more than pure enjoyment.

Though the tea aisle can seem overwhelming with choices, focus on the basic varieties.

• Black tea: A nice alternative to coffee, black tea also seems to lower stress levels, according to an international study from the University College London. Drinking black tea can help strengthen hip bones and even reduce the risk for heart attacks and Parkinson's disease. Ladies also may get an additional benefit: a lower risk of ovarian cancer and kidney stones.
• Green tea: A 2013 review of multiple studies suggests the beverage may reduce cholesterol, and a National Academy of Sciences study found that it may lower the chance of an Alzheimer's diagnosis. Green teabags can also be used as soothing agents for sunburned skin or puffy eyes.
• White tea: An Oregon State University study reported that white tea adds antioxidants to the body. Antioxidants help slow down the aging process, heal sun damage to the skin, and lower the risk of a number of diseases, including heart disease, diabetes and cancer.

Pair each type with fresh fruit to gain even more antioxidants and enhance certain flavors.

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