Morning black tea, for the perfect start to the day
Black tea is (also) a wonderful breakfast companion. Drinking black tea upon waking helps rehydrate the body after several hours of fasting. Moreover, it can be enjoyed without sugar, making it a healthy, natural drink. In addition, its rich, malty flavour pairs perfectly with toasted bread. Some of the bolder black teas may even appeal to coffee lovers. Finally, black tea is loved in the morning for its stimulating effect. Thanks to the theine, which is released gradually into the body over six hours, you enjoy a burst of vitality that helps boost concentration and memory. Ideal for taking on a busy morning! The most popular breakfast black tea? Undoubtedly the aptly named English Breakfast!
Did you know that black tea contains more theine than green tea or white tea? It is therefore ideally suited to breakfast or brunch to provide the energy you need for the day ahead.
What is more, you have surely heard the well-known phrase “tea contains caffeine”. A statement that is both true and false… Let us explain!
Theine and caffeine actually come from the same molecule, but they do not have the same effect on our body, although both aim to wake us up. Caffeine is a quick boost, immediately available in the body, whereas theine is stimulating and releases gradually over time. The choice of effect is yours! Discover all our morning teas.
Midday black tea, for easier lunch digestion
At lunchtime, as is customary in several countries around the world, black tea leaves can replace water and accompany savoury dishes. This is true, for instance, of Yunnan black tea, renowned for pairing beautifully with meats such as veal, chicken, duck breast or foie gras. But black tea can also be enjoyed at the end of a meal, instead of coffee. Rich in tannins, which are powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatories, black tea leaves are said to promote good digestion. After a heavy meal, it is an excellent habit to adopt, and in the long term, it may reduce the occurrence of intestinal discomfort and digestive disorders. Convinced?
Afternoon black tea, tea-time style
Whether at work between meetings, or on a day off with a proper tea break at home or in a café, black tea is a firm afternoon favourite. Especially Earl Grey and Darjeeling teas, which can be savoured with a dash of milk or a sweet treat, just as the British do so well at tea-time. On sunny days, opt for an iced black tea, perfect for an afternoon treat or to refresh yourself throughout the day. It is very simple to prepare: just brew some black tea, sweeten it if desired (with honey or sugar), then chill it in a large jug with ice cubes. Before serving, add your favourite garnishes: citrus fruits, peaches, apricots, red berries, ginger, mint…
Evening black tea, light and decaffeinated
If not everyone is keen on black tea in the evening, it is due to the presence of theine, which provides welcome energy during the day but can interfere with sleep. However, the stimulation felt, the rate of theine absorption, and individual tolerance vary from person to person. Those sensitive to theine may prefer to drink black tea only in the earlier part of the day. Others can continue to enjoy it without feeling any trouble falling asleep, or simply by taking the precaution of brewing a lighter cup. It is very easy to reduce the theine content in your cup by briefly infusing your black tea bag once. Then, discard the water and brew a second infusion, which will be much lower in theine while retaining the full flavour of the black tea. Alternatively, caffeine-free teas, or herbal infusions, are a safe bet for a comforting moment that will not affect your sleep.
Read also: Is black tea a stimulant? Does it keep you awake?
Herbal teas and infusions: another option for your evenings
Another alternative for evening variety: infusions, herbal teas and rooibos will also do the trick nicely. Naturally theine-free, they promise a restful night’s sleep or deep relaxation.
The health benefits of black tea leaves
Black tea leaves offer multiple benefits, starting with a stimulating rather than jittery effect. Naturally rich in caffeine and tannins, black tea provides the energy needed to keep going all day without leaving you overstimulated. Drinking a cup of tea avoids the familiar spike of nervousness associated with coffee. Furthermore, black tea is thought to aid digestion and promote elimination and drainage thanks to the antioxidants (polyphenols) it contains. Finally, these antioxidants play a vital role in the body by helping fight against certain illnesses and the effects of free radicals. Not bad, is it?
As you will have gathered, black tea can be enjoyed at different times throughout the day. It is up to you to choose what suits you best, depending on the desired effect and your caffeine tolerance. In any case, a cup of black tea offers you a wealth of benefits and virtues!