Whether green or black, tea has important health benefits. While the color changes its composition slightly, tea remains a health partner, regardless of its color. Black tea is oxidized and fermented. Its antioxidants are different, but equally interesting. Fermentation also gives it stronger theine and a more intense taste. Here's how to choose between black tea or green tea.
- The secrets of black and green tea production
- A closer look at the benefits of teas
- The right tea for every moment
The secrets of black and green tea production
Whether white, green, or black, all tea comes from tea plant leaves. It's during harvesting that the preparation of the leaves differs. Some teas undergo an oxidation phase, others don't.
The making of green tea
Green tea like white tea is the reference beverage in China and Japan. They are unique in that they do not undergo oxidation. This preserves all their health benefits.
The making of black tea
Black tea requires oxidation of the plant's leaves. They are dried and fermented for a long time. This slightly modifies their properties. Moreover, this preparation makes them "richer" in theine.
A closer look at the benefits of teas
Teas, whether black or green, bring numerous benefits to the body. However, since their antioxidants are different, their actions are also distinct.
The benefits of green tea
The different varieties of green tea are rich in antioxidant substances. Polyphenols and catechins are abundant to protect the body.
Green tea consumption is particularly known for:
- Promote weight loss;
- Reduce the risk of cancer;
- Fight fatigue;
- Protect the body from oxidative stress.
Green tea-based recipes also reduce the absorption of iron from food.
The benefits of black tea
Black teas are richer in theine. However, fermentation changes their antioxidant composition. They then provide an interesting amount of theaflavins, another substance from the polyphenol family. This theaflavin has interesting effects on the body.
The consumption of organic black tea has favorable effects on:
- Weight loss;
- Protection against prostate cancer;
- Regulation of the cardiovascular system.
Like green tea, black tea reduces the absorption of iron from food.
The right tea for every moment
Tea leaf infusions are suitable for everyone. However, depending on one's sensitivity, it is recommended to pay attention to theine (caffeine) content to benefit from the beverage.
Morning tea, an energizing black tea
Rather rich in theine, black tea is, like coffee, a morning beverage. This form of caffeine produces an energizing effect. Purists drink it in the afternoon during the traditional "cup of tea". It is then accompanied by a splash of milk. While some drink black tea in the evening, it can have a negative impact on sleep.
Evening tea, a green tea low in caffeine
Green tea infusion is rich in antioxidants and low in theine. It can be enjoyed throughout the day. A cup of green tea is often consumed after meals to reduce fat absorption. Simply steep the leaves in a bit of hot water.
Oolong black tea can also be consumed in the evening. Indeed, this high-quality tea is one of the rare black teas that is low in theine.