Tea is the most popular beverage in the world after tap water with over six billion kilogrammes of tea consumed annually! With a growing variety of teas on offer, many shoppers don’t know which tea is best suited to their needs. Specialist dietitian and Laager Rooibos partner, Mbali Mapholi, sat down to answer South Africans’ tea-related questions.
“Tea is more than just a delicious beverage, it’s a culturally significant addition to many daily customs that bring people closer together,” said Mapholi. “Because of its cultural richness and the fact that there are so many wonderful teas available today. I want to ensure everyone has the right information when choosing which tea is best for them, which is why I’ve answered these frequently asked questions.”
I struggle with insomnia, will drinking tea help?
If you struggle to sleep, a herbal tea may be the answer for you! Herbal teas like Rooibos, Honeybush and Chamomile are caffeine free. Chamomile in particular is often associated with promoting sleep. Researchers believe that its effect on sleep is due to the fact that it contains Apigenin - a flavonoid that binds to certain receptors in the brain, which can promote sleepiness.
Can I give tea to my kids?
Rooibos tea is the perfect choice for kids because it is naturally caffeine-free and naturally sweet. Young kids should ideally not consume caffeine on a regular basis. All teas, except herbal teas like Rooibos and Honeybush, contain caffeine. Rooibos also has other benefits for growing bodies – it is hydrating, low in tannins, high in antioxidants, and can help soothe tummy ache and allergies.
I’m trying to lose weight – can Green tea help me?
Although Green tea is packed with antioxidants which are important for good health, Green tea on its own is not a magic cure for weight loss. Weight loss is achieved through lifestyle changes such as adopting a nourishing and varied diet and keeping active. This being said, Green tea is a healthy drink which can certainly form part of your weight loss programme.
In addition, Green tea may improve your workouts as it has the ability to increase your blood flow, which then results in improved oxygenation to your bodily organs.
I have diabetes, which tea is best for me?
Rooibos may help people with diabetes keep their blood sugar levels under control as part of a healthy lifestyle and therefore reduce the risk of complications. Rooibos is also naturally sweet meaning it can be enjoyed without sugar or other sweeteners.
Can I drink tea when I’m pregnant?
Herbal teas like Rooibos and Honeybush are the perfect choice during pregnancy. They’re naturally caffeine-free and can also help soothe an irritated stomach. They can also be enjoyed hot or cold to keep you hydrated and feeling at your best.
Which is the best tea to drink and when?
If you don’t have any specific health conditions, it’s best to choose your tea according to your mood, the time of the day, and your particular need at that time. Tea is a versatile beverage boasting a range of health benefits offered by the group of natural plant compounds found in tea. Here are some examples of which tea to drink when.
· Feeling bloated or constipated?
– Drink Green tea
· Suffering from high cholesterol or high blood pressure?
– Drink Rooibos tea daily
· Feeling that afternoon slump?
– Drink some Black or Green tea
· In the mood for a delicious, caffeine-free tea for any time of day?
– Drink Rooibos tea
· Time for tea and scones?
– Drink Earl Grey tea
· Down with colds and flu?
– Drink Rooibos tea
“There are so many reasons to drink tea” commented Mapholi in closing “Firstly, we drink tea for pure enjoyment! Secondly, tea is an affordable and a versatile drink that can be consumed either hot or cold. And finally, tea is packed with antioxidants which have numerous health benefits such as boosting your immune system, supporting heart health, and fighting off inflammation.”
Visit www.joekels.co.za and@LaagerRooibosTea or @urbandietitian (@mbalimapholiinc. on Facebook) on social media for more health tips and advice from Mbali Mapholi, as well as healthy recipes and ideas for the whole family.
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