FoodUnlock health benefits with the queen of teas: White tea

Unlock health benefits with the queen of teas: White tea

Some people start their day with a cup of coffee, while others prefer black tea with lemon. However, there's a brew that deserves daily attention: white tea. Although it is less popular than other varieties, it certainly merits a chance.

Go for white tea
Go for white tea
Images source: © Adobe Stock

White tea originates from the fields of China and is aptly called "the queen of teas." Compared to other brews, it stands out for its high nutritional content and unique harvesting method—only young buds covered with white down are picked. These buds are dried immediately after harvesting. Although more expensive than black or green tea, it is certainly worth trying.

The queen of teas

White tea, known as "the queen of teas," is prized for its numerous health benefits and delicate taste. It is primarily a rich source of polyphenols and catechins, which are potent antioxidants. Thanks to these, white tea combats free radicals, protecting the body from oxidative stress and slowing the aging process.

The antioxidants not only delay aging but also support the circulatory system and lower cholesterol levels, exhibiting anti-cancer effects as well. Due to its caffeine content, white tea may have stimulating properties, although milder than those of coffee or yerba mate. It is also a source of essential microelements such as niacin, manganese, and fluoride, which are crucial for the body's proper functioning. Additionally, it contains vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system and helps fight infections.

White tea
White tea© Adobe Stock

White tea for weight loss

Drinking white tea may be helpful in a weight reduction diet. It contains compounds that may stimulate metabolism. Some studies suggest that white tea can influence the fat-burning process, facilitating fat reduction.

White tea may support the proper functioning of the intestines and prevent constipation, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight. The antioxidants mentioned earlier may assist the liver in removing toxins from the body, positively impacting the weight loss process.

White tea has a delicate flavor.
White tea has a delicate flavor.© Canva

How to brew white tea?

White tea is delicate, and pouring boiling water over it can actually ruin its flavor and diminish its beneficial properties. A teaspoon of dried leaves should be steeped in about 7 ounces of water at a temperature of approximately 158-176 degrees Fahrenheit, for 2 to 5 minutes. If you prefer a stronger brew, add more leaves without increasing the brewing time. Unsure how to reach this temperature? Boil the water, wait 6 minutes, and then pour it over the tea.

It's recommended to drink white tea two to four times a day. After brewing the leaves, don't discard them—you can brew them again once or twice.

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