Tea, the refreshing beverage of humanity for many centuries is considered as a health drink because of many therapeutic qualities attributed to it. Tea enthusiasts unequivocally vouch for the beneficial factors, but there are dissenting voices to warn the harmful effects. It is a fact that in the contemporary society people have become more health conscious and are becoming over cautious about the pros and cons of anything and everything they consume. Whether it is oil, chocolate, milk or grains there are diverse views expressed by researchers on the merits and demerits of such items. Tea is yet another beverage that is subjected to intensive research but no specific health hazard is attributed to it. But some experts warn against addiction to it.
Tea is a natural and agro based product which contains catechins or flavanoids which is an antioxidant. This is the basis of experts’ opinion that consumption of tea in moderation is good for health. Studies have revealed that risks of cancer and cardiovascular diseases are found less in those who consume tea regularly. According to some nutrition specialists tea will strengthen the immune system of the body. It can reduce the risks of kidney stone. Equally important is the contention that tea offer protection against decay of teeth and bones. Tea does not contain salts or fat contents in it and therefore safe for those who suffer from hypertension or heart ailments. Plain black or green tea is considered as a good antidote against many potential health hazards. Without additives like sugar and spices tea is safe even for seriously sick persons and diabetics. Green tea is an effective remedy against cholesterol related problems, liver ailments and inflammatory conditions. It is also claimed that green tea can enhance metabolic rate in the body. Caffeine content in tea is again another effective antioxidant.
However there are experts who are not very optimistic about the consumption of tea. According to them tea can lead to sleeplessness and in some cases will retard the effects of some medicines like anticoagulants. It may adversely affect the iron absorption by the body. Intensive research is being undertaken by many individuals and institutions. Opinions are divided as far as the impacts of tea on human body. But no conclusive proof is yet put forward to indicate that tea can cause health hazards. On the other hand tea is a rich source of magnesium, potassium and manganese which are essential for a healthy body. The bottom line is clear. Moderate consumption of tea is not injurious to health.
People with complicated health problems should consult physicians in this context. Whether tea has therapeutic values or not is a matter for experts to establish beyond doubts. But as mentioned earlier, no specific health hazard is attributed to consumption of tea even though humanity was consuming it for many centuries. The United Kingdom Tea Council has no hesitation to conclude that tea is having many health benefits and that “for centuries to come there will be a place at the centre of British lives for a nice cup of tea”.
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