Black tea vs. milk tea: If you’re confused about which is better, don’t worry. Here’s everything you need to know about these two drinks, plus the difference to help you choose.
Some of us can’t start our day without a steaming cup of tea, right? We need to refresh our mind and start our day. A cup of tea in the morning also boosts energy levels. But when it comes to black tea or milk tea, is one better than the other?
To keep the answer simple, both types of tea have their own pros and cons. To find out which one is best for you, Health Shots contacted Eshanka Wahi, a wellness advocate and nutritional coach. Scroll down to learn more!
What is black tea good for?
Black tea, derived from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, is known for its robust flavor and dark color. It contains caffeine, antioxidants and various beneficial compounds, making it a popular choice around the world. Here are the health benefits of black:
1. Packed with antioxidants
Black tea is rich in antioxidants, especially polyphenols such as flavonoids and catechins. These compounds fight oxidative stress, help neutralize free radicals and potentially reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
2. Promotes heart health
Regular consumption of black tea has been linked to improved cardiovascular health. The flavonoids in black tea can strengthen the function of blood vessels, regulate blood pressure, and lower cholesterol levels, contributing to a healthier heart.
3. Good for cognitive function
The presence of caffeine in black tea can enhance alertness and improve cognitive function. In addition, the amino acid L-theanine in black tea can have a calming effect, promoting relaxation without causing drowsiness.
4. Supports the immune system
Black tea contains compounds that can strengthen the immune system. The polyphenols in tea have antimicrobial properties, and the drink itself can contribute to overall hydration, which is crucial for maintaining a robust immune response.
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5. Boosts healthy digestion
Tannins in black tea can have a positive impact on digestion. They have been associated with reducing intestinal inflammation and can potentially alleviate digestive discomfort.
6. Aids weight loss
Some studies suggest that compounds in black tea, particularly polyphenols, may aid in weight management by stimulating metabolism and reducing fat absorption. However, it is important to note that black tea alone is not a magic solution for weight loss and should be part of a balanced lifestyle.
Is milk tea or milk chai good for health?
Milk tea is quite common in India. Combine black tea with milk, sugar or other sweeteners, creating a creamy and delicious drink. However, its nutritional benefits depend on the added ingredients, which determine the calorie, sugar and saturated fat content of the milk. Therefore, there are two advantages and disadvantages of milk tea.
Pros of milk tea:
1. Good for bones: Since milk tea provides essential nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D and protein through the addition of milk, it is good for bone health, immunity and general well-being.
2. Antioxidants: Milk tea contains antioxidants that can help fight oxidative stress, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
3. Caffeine: Milk tea often contains caffeine, which can enhance alertness and cognitive function.
Also read: I swapped my doodh wali chai with green tea for a month and the results are beyond amazing
Cons of milk tea:
1. High calorie and sugar content: Milk tea can be calorie dense, especially with full fat milk and added sugars, potentially contributing to weight gain and other health problems.
2. Digestive discomfort: For some people, the tannins in tea can lead to digestive discomfort or irritation.
3. Bad for oral health: The sugar content in sweetened milk tea can contribute to dental problems, including cavities.
4. Sensitivity to caffeine: Excessive caffeine intake can lead to negative effects such as insomnia, increased heart rate, and nervousness, especially for those sensitive to caffeine.
5. Dehydration: Since caffeine is a diuretic, consuming too much milk tea can increase your number of visits to the bathroom, which can cause dehydration.
Which is better: black tea or milk tea?
Black tea offers a rich source of antioxidants, such as flavonoids, and potential cardiovascular benefits. It’s not just a sugar-free, low-calorie drink; it actually offers a range of health benefits, including weight loss. In fact, a study published in the National Cancer Institute found that drinking at least two cups of black tea every day reduces the risk of death from any cause by almost 9-13 percent.
On the other hand, milk tea combines black tea with milk, which provides additional nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D. However, the caloric content increases, especially with added sugar, which can also result in digestive problems. According to a study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, addiction to milk tea can have a detrimental impact on mental health, such as anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation. Not only that, but it can cause sleep problems, acne, breakouts, and even constipation.
Therefore, the choice between black tea and milk tea is quite clear. Go for black tea when it comes to making a healthier choice!
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