You’ve heard the old saying, “Well, you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover.” But should we judge a tea by its color? There are four main types of tea, and the two most popular are Green Tea and Black Tea. We often hear about how Green Tea can be healthy for us, especially when we’re sick. But what about the other tea, the “normal” tea? Rumor has it that Black Tea is also good for you. So, what’s the difference between the two, and which one is better for us?
Comparing Green Tea and Black Tea
When starting to explore these questions, it’s important to note that all teas come from the same plant—Camellia Sinensis. The differences in color, taste, aroma, and even the types of tea depend on the regions where the plants are grown. Even teas of the same color may taste or smell differently, depending on their country of origin. Green Tea and Black Tea are among the most popular in North America, and both have health benefits that you may or may not be aware of.
Until recently, Green Tea has been the star of health discussions, especially with all the research surrounding it. However, Black Tea, the “normal” tea many of us drink on a daily basis, is also proving to be good for our health. While these two teas serve different health purposes, it’s not so much about one being better than the other. Both are beneficial and can help your body in different ways.
The main benefit of Green Tea is its high concentration of a powerful antioxidant known as EGCg. During the process of making Black Tea, this compound is converted into other compounds, leading researchers to initially believe that Black Tea lacked the health benefits of its lighter-toned cousin. However, recent research has shown that Black Tea is also healthy, thanks to the presence of theaflavins and thearubigens. These compounds give Black Tea its dark color and distinct taste while providing a health boost.
One thing to keep in mind when considering the benefits of different types of tea is that tea research is still in its early stages. Yes, many articles based on observational studies point to a relationship between tea consumption and a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer. However, there is no conclusive evidence that drinking tea provides protective or healing benefits for everyone.
Despite the focus on Green Tea, it’s important to recognize some of the research involving its darker relative, Black Tea.
Black Tea contains flavonoids, a phytonutrient with antioxidant benefits. The consumption of Black Tea, with the aid of flavonoids, can help reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease by lowering LDL (the “bad” cholesterol) associated with these conditions. Many studies support these findings.
So, does the color matter? While both Black Tea and Green Tea have their own unique colors, flavors, and aromas, they also have their own specific health benefits. No matter which tea you prefer, consider your health needs when choosing your favorite cup.
