Tea is high in polyphenols, which are antioxidants found in many plant products. Green tea contains more polyphenols than black tea.
Research suggests that a diet high in polyphenols may protect against many health conditions, including high blood pressure, some cancers, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes.
“Tea is very rich in bioactive compounds like polyphenols […] these have the potential to reduce oxidative stress […] that’s the background mechanism.”
– Dr. Inoue-Choi
Research has indicated that polyphenols in the diet have many benefits, but excessive amounts, such as may be found in supplements, could have adverse effects.
Black tea contains polyphenols called theaflavins and thearubigins. Studies have shown that theaflavins are powerful antioxidants and may also have anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antimicrobial properties, helping to control blood lipids.