By now, you have probably heard about the benefits of green tea. It is said that one or two cups a day can lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, decrease the risk of heart disease, and even improve memory. Other types of tea, such as black tea, dandelion tea, or hibiscus tea, are also well-known for their benefits. But what about white tea?
White tea is often overlooked in favor of more popular varieties. However, it contains just as many, if not more, health benefits and offers a uniquely sweet flavor.
This tea has a nutritional profile comparable to green tea and is associated with brain health, reproductive and oral health, lower cholesterol, and increased fat burning.
White tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. This is the same plant used to make other types of tea, such as green or black tea. It is primarily harvested in China but is also produced in other regions such as Thailand, India, Taiwan, and Nepal. It is picked while the plant is still young, resulting in a very distinct, slightly sweet flavor.
1. Rich in Antioxidants
White tea is loaded with antioxidants, which help fight harmful free radicals and counteract oxidative stress. These beneficial compounds have even been shown to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as coronary heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
Some research, such as that published in the Journal of Food Science, conducted at the Department of Biological Sciences at Lehman College, found that white tea and green tea contain comparable levels of antioxidants and polyphenols.
2. Improves Oral Health
White tea contains many compounds that may contribute to promoting oral health. These compounds can help reduce plaque formation by blocking bacterial growth.
3. Boosts Fat Burning
Research has found that white tea contains numerous catechins. These are plant compounds with antioxidant properties that help burn fat and give a boost to metabolism. A study published in the journal Nutrition and Metabolism showed that white tea extract caused the breakdown of fat cells and prevented the formation of new fat cells. Other foods with the same effect include grapefruit, cherries, and coconut oil.
4. May Kill Cancer Cells
Due to its high concentration of antioxidants, some studies have found that white tea may help combat cancer.
A study published in Cancer Prevention Research treated lung cancer cells with white tea extract, finding that it was capable of killing cancer cells. Another study conducted at the University of Malaya in Malaysia showed that white tea extract was able to stop colon cancer cells from spreading and protect healthy cells from damage.
Other plants with high antioxidant levels include ginger, turmeric, and green leaves.
5. Improves Reproductive Health
Multiple studies have shown that white tea may contribute to promoting reproductive health and increasing fertility, especially in men.
6. Protects Brain Health
Research shows that white tea may help protect brain health due to its high catechin content. White tea has a similar antioxidant profile to green tea, which has been shown to improve cognitive function in the elderly and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
7. Healthy Heart
Flavonoids found in various foods, such as white tea, green tea, fruits, and vegetables, are associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disorders. Flavonoids help lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of strokes, and help maintain normal blood pressure levels.
