In winter, the body's physiological functions decline, and yang energy weakens, thus requiring higher levels of energy and nutrition. Brewing a cup of warm black tea not only warms the body but also offers numerous health benefits.
Let's follow Xiao Er's lead to explore the benefits of drinking black tea in winter!
Black Tea Warms the Stomach
The tea polyphenols in tea leaves have astringent properties that can stimulate the stomach to some extent. On an empty stomach, this stimulation is even more pronounced, which is why sometimes drinking tea on an empty stomach may cause discomfort.
Black tea, however, is made through fermentation and roasting. Under the action of oxidase, tea polyphenols undergo enzymatic oxidation, reducing their content and, consequently, their stimulating effect on the stomach.
Unlike other teas, black tea does not harm the stomach but instead nurtures it. The oxidized products of tea polyphenols in black tea promote digestion. Regularly drinking black tea with sugar and milk can reduce inflammation, protect the gastric mucosa, and even aid in treating ulcers.
However, it is not advisable to drink black tea when it has cooled, as it can affect its ability to nourish and warm the stomach, and it may also lose some of its nutritional value if left standing for too long.
Black Tea Warms the Body and Fights Cold Weather
In winter, the body's physiological functions decline, and yang energy weakens, making the body require higher levels of energy and nutrition. Brewing a cup of warm black tea in autumn not only warms the body but can also help prevent illness.
Black tea is sweet and warm, nurturing the body's yang energy, and its crimson color provides a sense of warmth.
Black tea is rich in proteins and sugars, which generate heat and warm the abdomen, enhancing the body's resistance to cold. In some parts of China, there is a tradition of drinking black tea with sugar and milk, which not only generates heat and warms the abdomen but also increases nutrition and strengthens the body.
Black Tea Prevents Colds
As the weather cools, the body's resistance drops, making one more susceptible to catching a cold. Black tea can help prevent colds. It has strong antibacterial properties, and using black tea to rinse the mouth can filter out viruses, preventing colds and cavities, while also lowering blood sugar and hypertension.
Black tea is sweet and warm, containing abundant proteins and sugars that enhance the body's resistance. Rinsing the mouth with black tea or drinking it directly can also help prevent influenza.
Due to its full fermentation process, black tea is less stimulating and particularly suitable for those with weaker digestive systems or overall health.
Black Tea Aids Digestion
Black tea helps eliminate greasiness, aids gastrointestinal digestion, stimulates appetite, and strengthens heart function. When your diet feels overly greasy and your stomach feels bloated, drinking more black tea can alleviate these symptoms and promote digestion.
After indulging in rich meats, drinking black tea can eliminate greasiness and assist the digestive system, contributing to overall health.