Black Tea: When It Helps, and When to Be Cautious

On winter days, it seems there's no substitute for a steaming cup of tea, often praised for its many benefits. Are these health claims true? First, it's important to note that when we talk about tea, we're referring specifically to the plant known as Camellia sinensis, not just any plant infusion. From the leaves of this shrub, various types of tea are made, including black and green tea, with the differences rooted in their processing.

This discussion will focus on black tea. Beyond its popular and beloved taste, is it also healthy? Let's explore some of the components it contains. Tea includes a substance called 'tannin', specifically "condensed tannins". Tannins give tea its bitter taste and have strong antioxidant activity that inhibits fat oxidation, thereby protecting blood vessels. Tea also contains a compound called 'catechin', which has numerous health benefits. It is an antioxidant, has anti-inflammatory properties, aids digestion and nausea, relieves pain, and even helps prevent cancer. It is worth noting that while present in black tea, catechins are found in higher amounts in green tea.

Tea also contains an amino acid called L-theanine. This compound has a calming effect and can improve concentration, memory, and cognitive abilities. Additionally, it contains caffeine, which we are very familiar with, as it is also found in tea. A single cup of tea contains about half the amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee. Stronger tea contains more caffeine. Caffeine increases alertness, blood pressure, and heart rate, which can benefit those with low blood pressure and a slow heart rate.

Despite its benefits, tea contains tannic acid, which impairs iron absorption. Therefore, it's not recommended to drink tea immediately following a meal; it's better to wait a while until the food is digested. Tea is considered an acidic food due to its high acid content, such as tannic acid (17%) and oxalic acid, which can affect the body's overall acidity. Excess acidity in the body can lead to various ailments, including inflammation. Moreover, its acidity hinders calcium absorption, which can impact the development of osteoporosis and, conversely, can contribute to the formation of kidney stones in susceptible individuals. Those with high blood pressure are advised to check if tea affects them by increasing their blood pressure, and if so, they should avoid it.

Eliyahu Shechter is an Iridologist and Natural Therapist