Exploring the role of antioxidants in various teas
Aaah antioxidants, the marketer’s dream. Often used interchangeably with ‘good for you’, everyone has heard of this word but many don’t really know what it means or why they are supposed to be good for you.
So what are antioxidants? Watch the following video for an excellent breakdown on the subject.
In very basic terms oxidation = chemical reaction that can break down organic substances. Including living tissues.
Antioxidants are compounds that help to prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals. Tea contains various forms of antioxidants including epigallocatechin gallate, catechins, theaflavins, and thearubigins.
So the hypothesis follows that by supplementing our diet with more antioxidant rich foods, we might be able to help prevent the problems associated with the free radicals that are generated in oxidation.
However, as detailed in the above video, it’s not as simple as more = better health. There are much more complicated relationships at play.
There is evidence to suggest that having a varied diet featuring lots of antioxidant rich foods will help you live longer and tea is one of them and they likely play a role in any causal relationships between tea and health.
Here is a brief breakdown of some different types of tea and their antioxidant properties:
- Primary Antioxidants: Catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)
- Benefits: Green tea is rich in catechins, which have been shown to improve heart health, support weight loss, and reduce the risk of cancer. EGCG, in particular, has potent antioxidant effects that help protect cells from damage.
Black tea
Primary Antioxidants: Theaflavins, thearubigins
- Benefits: Black tea contains theaflavins and thearubigins, which contribute to its dark color and robust flavour. These antioxidants help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and improve heart health.
White tea
- Primary Antioxidants: Catechins, polyphenols
- Benefits: White tea is minimally processed, preserving high levels of catechins and polyphenols. It is known for its anti-aging properties, skin health benefits, and potential to reduce the risk of heart disease.
Oolong tea
- Primary Antioxidants: Catechins, theaflavins
- Benefits: Oolong tea combines the benefits of both green and black tea. It aids in metabolism, helps with weight management, and has cardiovascular benefits due to its diverse range of antioxidants.
Herbal teas
Herbal teas are not true teas (not derived from the Camellia sinensis plant) but offer various antioxidants based on their ingredients.
Chamomile tea
- Primary Antioxidants: Apigenin, quercetin
- Benefits: Chamomile tea contains antioxidants that promote relaxation, reduce stress, and support digestive health.
Rooibos tea
- Primary Antioxidants: Aspalathin, nothofagin
- Benefits: Rooibos tea is rich in antioxidants that support skin health, reduce inflammation, and may improve heart health.
Peppermint tea
- Primary Antioxidants: Rosmarinic acid, flavonoids
- Benefits: Peppermint tea has antioxidants that help with respiratory health, digestive issues, and can provide relief from headaches.
The Chanui grain of salt:
Drink a cup or two of green tea inbetween your beans, olive oil and chard-based meals. It might help you live longer.