General Teas
Free radical damage (from natural metabolic processes, exposure to pollutants, UV sunlight & smoking), contributes to many chronic & ageing diseases. Antioxidants are important for combating free radicals; preventing & repairing cell damage.
Tea is high in antioxidants known as polyphenols. Vitamins A, C & E present in tea also act as free radical scavengers.
3-4 cups of tea provide about 45% of daily fluoride requirements: increasing bone density, reducing tooth decay & plaque build up & limiting bacteria responsible for bad breath.
Black teas contain about ½ the caffeine of coffee. Less fermented teas, (white, green & oolong), contain less caffeine than black teas.
Drinking tea at normal strengths does not have a diuretic effect. In fact, drinking 3-4 cups of tea a day helps hydration. Plus potassium in tea helps the body maintain fluid levels.
Tea compounds can have adverse reactions if combined with certain drugs, so tea should not be used for swallowing medication. People with irregular heartbeats or stomach ulcers may need to be cautious about tea drinking & should consult a medical professional.