The Importance of What You Drink for Health

The Importance of What You Drink for Health

The beverages you choose are just as critical to your health as the food you eat. Ideally, you’re hydrating with ample pure water daily and steering clear of unhealthy drinks like sodas, artificial fruit juices, and energy drinks to keep your health in top shape.

After water, tea stands out as one of the most commonly consumed and beneficial beverages you can incorporate into your diet. The Food and Agriculture Organization’s report indicated that tea consumption globally is growing by 3.3% annually, hitting an impressive 6.5 billion kilograms in 2022. In the U.S., over 159 million Americans enjoy tea daily, as per the Tea Association of the U.S.A.

Tea is broadly categorized into two types: true tea, derived from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, and herbal teas, or herbal infusions, which are made from a variety of herbs, flowers, fruits, or spices from other plant species. Both are cherished not only for their delightful taste and fragrance but also for their numerous health benefits, particularly in supporting immune function.

Tea’s Immune-Enhancing Components

A common attribute of both true and herbal teas is their high content of polyphenols. These compounds are celebrated for promoting health and longevity through their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. Polyphenols include flavonoids, phenolic acids, lignans, and stilbenes.