To each their own tastes and habits
Whether every morning at breakfast or more occasionally at tea time, it is above all for its taste that black tea is so popular. The most widely consumed variety in France today, black tea appeals for its strong character: intense, aromatic and malty flavours. If we drink it so regularly, it is also because we know black tea is good for us. It is a hydrating drink that can be enjoyed unsweetened and is renowned for its benefits. In addition to its stimulating effect (thanks for the little energy boost!), black tea may help combat diabetes (it regulates blood sugar), cholesterol, headaches and anxiety. You can therefore safely drink 4 to 5 cups of black tea a day. (If they are small cups, you can have a little more!)
To each according to the time of day
What may sometimes encourage you to reduce your black tea consumption is your sensitivity to theine. Present in black tea leaves, theine is released when they are immersed in hot water. It gives us welcome energy during the day… Except that the stimulation felt, absorption rate and tolerance vary from person to person. People sensitive to theine, who may worry about having trouble falling asleep, will prefer to drink black tea only in the morning. We therefore recommend testing to identify your tolerance threshold for theine.
Did you know that theine and caffeine come from the same molecule? Yes indeed! However, caffeine does not have the same effects on the body as theine. Caffeine is generally said to be exciting, whereas theine is stimulating. Something to consider when choosing the drink that will give you energy throughout the day!
To make the most of black tea’s benefits, it is generally recommended to drink one cup in the morning for an energising yet gentle start to the day. The rest of the day is better suited to green or white tea.
To each according to their state of health
Pregnant women
Another group that may wish to reduce their theine intake is pregnant women, who doctors generally advise to limit their consumption to two cups of black tea a day.
People undergoing medical treatment or with anaemia
Likewise, if you are undergoing medical treatment, it is recommended that you check with your doctor whether certain foods or drinks may affect a medicine’s activity by reducing, slowing down or, conversely, increasing one or more of its effects. For example, coffee or alcohol can intensify certain side effects of a medicine. This is very rarely the case with tea, but if in doubt, do not hesitate to ask your doctor! One of the best-known interactions is not to take iron (as a dietary supplement) with tea, as it inhibits its absorption by the body.
Everyone can imagine (their own) alternatives
If, for one reason or another, you need to reduce your black tea consumption and are worried about missing it, several hot drinks can be tried as alternatives.
The rooibos
We particularly recommend Rooibos (tea without theine), a shrub from the acacia family whose tiny leaves, resembling pine needles, grow only in South Africa. Its non-bitter, earthy taste may remind some people of black tea. The only difference? It contains no theine (caffeine), so it can be enjoyed at any time of day!
Herbal teas and infusions
Another option is the multitude of herbal teas and plant infusions. So many different flavours to try, each with health benefits… that still need to be verified!
Decaffeinated black tea
Finally, if needed, you can also decaffeinate black tea to reduce its theine content while preserving the flavours and aromas of the leaves. Decaffeinated black tea has no stimulating effect, so you can drink it at any time of day, including in the evening, without risking an impact on your sleep! How? Simply steep your black tea once, then discard the water containing theine. Then keep the same tea bag and steep your tea a second time in fresh water.
A quick reminder of the benefits of black tea
Black tea has many health benefits, starting with its stimulating effect mentioned above. It is also said to improve digestion and regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Rich in antioxidants, it is believed to help combat premature cell ageing and the development of certain diseases.