Tea is the dried plant Camelia sinensis. True tea includes black, green, white and oolong teas. Drinking two or more cups of tea a day can provide many health benefits. What is in tea that makes it so special?

EGCG

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a powerful antioxidant, has shown remarkable health-promoting properties in laboratory studies. Included are anti-viral actions, which offer more cold protection than either vitamin C or Echinacea. It is thought that the chemicals in tea stimulate gamma-delta T-cells that boost the bodies own natural immunity against both bacteria and viruses. Tooth decay or gingivitis causing bacteria are also killed.

EGCG is very effective at destroying free radicals, which cause cell-mutations that can lead to cancer. It even fights existing cancer by preventing the tumors from developing their own blood supply.

Flavonoids

Flavonoids, more antioxidants, lower LDL cholesterol levels benefiting the heart and circulatory system. These powerful antioxidants protect against hypertension by suppressing the production of a hormone, angiotensin II, which can contribute to high blood pressure. Further protection against heart attacks and strokes comes from actions that inhibit the abnormal formation of blood clots. In addition, anti-oxidants show effectiveness in lowering blood sugar and protecting against diabetes.

A diet rich in anti-oxidants can to slow the aging process by attacking free radicals before they have the opportunity to damage cells. Anti-inflammatory properties of these anti-oxidants also protect against arthritis. A diet rich in anti-oxidants can to slow the aging process by attacking free radicals before they have the opportunity to damage cells. Anti-inflammatory properties of these anti-oxidants also protect against arthritis.

Minerals

Drinking tea provides important minerals such as zinc and folic acid. An eight-ounce cup of tea provides 25% RDA of manganese, a mineral essential for bone growth and body development. Drinking tea hydrates the body and, as a good source of potassium, helps maintain healthy body fluid levels. Fluoride strengthens teeth and bones and can help protect against osteoporosis.

So the next time you need a break, make it a tea break with a warm, soothing cup of anti-oxidants and minerals!

Our editor, Jean Fisher, is a former elementary teacher. She offers "What's For Dinner?" as a free service for busy families.One delicious meal is suggested for each day of the week, plus an organized grocery shopping list that can be customized to include all your shopping needs.You will also find two stimulating table topics and one educational after-dinner activity for each day.

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