What are tea leaves really in?
Black, white or green tea leaves are made of many components. We distinguish 6 main ones:
• Amino acids: there are around twenty including theanine, with a sweet flavor. The more the tea is oxidized, the more they tend to deteriorate;
• Alkaloids: caffeine, theobromine and theophylline, bitter substances also present in coffee which are repellents secreted by the plant to protect itself from pests;
• Carbohydrates: starches and sugars stored during photosynthesis;
• Minerals: more than 40 types including magnesium, potassium, calcium are found in tea, varying depending on the harvest;
• Pigments: chlorophyll and carotenoids absorb light during photosynthesis to color the tea leaves;
• Polyphenols: mainly EGCG and catechin, are antioxidants secreted by plants to attract or repel certain parasites. They give the tea its astringent taste.
The proven health benefits of tea and infusion
Black, white or green tea being infused in water is actually a source of hydration when consumed regularly. As an adult, it is also recommended by numerous studies to consume 1.5 to 2 liters of water per day to be in good health. Indeed, water is the main constituent of our cells, but also ensures the proper elimination of waste. According to these studies, its consumption is therefore vital to circulate the blood properly and oxygenate our cells.
Likewise, it is proven that tea leaves are very rich in antioxidants, in particular thanks to the presence of polyphenols. The latter have the ability to slow down the oxidation of other substances to prevent the development of certain diseases such as cancer, coupled with ECGC. An American study notably observed, among 75,000 women regular consumers of green tea, a reduction in the risk of diseases such as cancer of the digestive tract.
Tea, a safe health drink
Consuming cups of black, white or green tea or an infusion is above all a pleasure gesture, which accompanies a healthy lifestyle. Some of its virtues have indeed been proven, but many of its supposed benefits and properties remain to be weighed. No studies prove that tea has an impact on weight, diabetes, cholesterol or other diseases. What is certain, however, is that tea or infusion has no harmful effects or risks on health. To stay in shape all year round, it's all a question of balance.
Opting for a varied, quality diet, exercising and drinking enough fluids is the starting point for well-being. To accompany breakfast, to give yourself a break and before going to bed, enjoy the flavors and benefits of tea or infusion to hydrate yourself. Be careful, however, not to systematically sweeten your cups of tea or infusion. Instead, add a squeeze of lemon juice to your drinks for a drink rich in flavor.
At Kusmi, we offer you hundreds of quality varieties that suit all your desires. To consume hot or iced, opt for a tea, a matcha or an organic Kusmi infusion made in Normandy rich in flavors. Darjeeling No. 37 organic, organic Sencha green tea or Rooibos Vanilla, find all our teas and infusions in bulk and in bags.