THE US REPORT

by Rebecca Day
Contributor to The US Report

As the economy continues to twist and turn in unpredictable ways, Americans are looking for options to relieve stress and lead a more healthy and practical lifestyle. While some are exercising more, and others are dining out less, there is one beneficial item we can add to our daily routine that is simple and inexpensive. Herbal teas continue to make headlines due to ongoing studies and discussions of potential health benefits. The tiny tea leaves packed into each individual tea bag or ounce may offer health benefits that include the regulation of blood sugar, prevention of cancer, healthy digestion, weight loss, and more.

Within each tea leaf there are powerful nutrients known as antioxidants, which can help prevent or slow damage to our body. Studies have shown that the amount of antioxidants in green teas and white teas far surpasses the amount of antioxidants you can get from any vegetable.

Not only may herbal teas offer endless amounts of health benefits, but in my opinion they offer an effective way to improve the way you feel without breaking the bank. For new tea drinkers, any grocery store offers a wide variety of teas for just a few dollars. Bigelow Teas are a very popular brand that can be found in grocery stores and are very reasonably priced. For more seasoned tea drinkers, tea stores such as Teavana offer a wide selection of quality teas by the ounce, which start at just $4.50 per ounce. For most types, one teaspoon of leaves makes a cup. Once you have selected and purchased your teas, all you need is a way to heat water and assorted ingredients such as lemon, honey, and sugar, which sweeten the tea to individual taste.

There are many wonderful products that can be purchased to help invigorate your tea experience. Tea pots and mugs make the tea drinking experience all the more fun and effective. So the next time you come in from a jog, or have a cold and want some comfort and perhaps a speedier recovery process, brew up a hot cup of tea and savor the benefits.

Types of Teas
When purchasing different teas, the large and diverse selection can be overwhelming. Here is a list of the various types of teas and possible benefits for the mind and body listed in the Teavana catalog:

White Tea—This is one of the more delicate types of tea. White tea is thought to contain one of the highest counts of antioxidants. This tea may help reduce fine lines and wrinkles and is thought to have potential for inhibiting the growth of some forms of cancer.

Green Tea—This tea is very popular and is believed to have many health benefits. Green tea may aid in the prevention of cancer, lowering cholesterol, regulating blood sugar, aiding in digestion, and many other things.

Oolong Tea—Oolong tea is a relaxing tea that is beneficial to the skin and teeth. Oolong tea may also help increase metabolism and weight loss.

Rooibos tea—Also known as Red tea, Rooibos tea may help digestion and soothe allergies. It is also high in vitamins and minerals.

Black Tea—Black tea contains the most caffeine ( 20%), therefore it acts as a slight stimulant. Black tea may also help lower cholesterol and may help prevent tooth decay. It is also  believed to be beneficial to the heart.

Long used in Eastern countries, teas are coming into their own in the US as the healthcare industry and advocacy groups explore potential health benefits, not only of teas but also of alternative forms of healing.

[The opinions are solely those of the author. No monetary or other benefits are derived from mention of specific products.]

Teas for stress relief, possible health benefits by Rebecca Day