New Delhi, June 21 (IANS). Tea is one of the most popular beverages in the world. Many people’s morning does not start without a sip of tea. Apart from taste and freshness, tea is also considered beneficial for health. Especially regarding green tea and black tea, there is often discussion about which of these teas is better for the body. From controlling blood sugar to heart health and weight control, both teas are said to have their own benefits.
According to scientists, both green tea and black tea contain natural elements obtained from plants called polyphenols. These are elements that help in fighting harmful free radicals formed in the body. Free radicals damage cells and can increase the risk of many diseases in the long run.
Green tea contains high amounts of ‘catechins’, a special category of polyphenols, which can help reduce inflammation in the body and improve glucose utilization.
Green tea is often considered more effective in controlling blood sugar. Many researches have found that the catechins and other anti-oxidants present in it improve the insulin of the body. Insulin is the hormone that works to transport the sugar present in the blood to the cells. When the body is unable to use insulin properly, blood sugar starts increasing. The elements present in green tea help in improving this process, which helps in controlling the sugar level in the blood.
At the same time, black tea is less beneficial. Black tea is also rich in antioxidants. Elements like theaflavin and thearubigin are found in it, which are formed during the oxidation of tea leaves. Medical research suggests that these elements help improve heart health, reduce inflammation and protect body cells from damage. Some studies have also found that regular consumption of black tea can be helpful in blood sugar control, but its effects appear to be slightly less than that of green tea.
The way of consuming tea also affects its benefits. According to experts, green tea should not be boiled too much. Leaving it in lukewarm water for a few minutes keeps its active ingredients safe. On the other hand, black tea is kept in hot water for some time so that its taste and qualities can be extracted properly. Drink both types of tea without sugar. If these contain added sugar, the potential benefits associated with blood sugar control may be substantially diminished.
Talking about other benefits of green tea, it is beneficial in weight control, better metabolism and heart health.
–IANS
PK/DKP