New study says black tea linked to cardiovascular health

While black tea is a very popular beverage, it usually doesn't get the media attention of green tea when it comes to possible health benefits. However, according to a recent report, two cups of black tea per day for eight days may help lower blood pressure for people with elevated levels. The study published in Nutrients, by researchers from the University of L'Aquila in Italy, and Unilever R&D in Vlaardingen, The Netherlands, cited significant improvements in arterial stiffness, and decreases in systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Researchers found for the first time that black tea, naturally rich in flavonoids, was beneficial to the overall health of the cardiovascular system in never-treated hypertensive patients.

When citing the results of the study, researchers did say, “It is important to note that while our study design was rigorous, it was also short-term and included a small number of subjects. “

While most recent studies have focused on the health benefits of green tea, this report focused on the potential health benefits of L-theanie, an amino acid found in tea leaves that are believed to help reduce stress, and promote relaxation, and theaflavins, which are compounds unique to black tea.

The reported benefits to the cardiovascular system of black tea are significant, considering the fact that after water, tea is the most consumed beverage around the world, and black tea is the most commonly consumed tea in North America. In 2010, Americans consumed almost 3 billion gallons of tea, most of it black.

Black tea is the perfect morning drink. Whether it's a rich chai or a robust unflavored leaf, the high caffeine content can help you get your day started. Black tea is the perfect substitute for coffee and is much healthier - in fact we designed a tea just to do that called Kick the Coffee, it is a rich & bold blend of Black and Pu-erh teas, with just a hint of caramel and almond.

Source: Nutrients (http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/7/2/1037)