Black tea with milk? which is better for you?

Some of us just can’t start our day without steaming tea, right? It feels necessary 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 pros and cons. To find out which is better for you, Health Shots reached out to Eshanka Wahi, a health advocate and nutrition coach. Scroll down to learn more.

What is black tea good for?

Black tea, made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, is known for its strong 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, particularly polyphenols such as flavonoids and catechins. These compounds fight oxidative stress, helping to neutralize free radicals and potentially reducing the risk of chronic disease.

2. Promotes heart health

Regular consumption of black tea is associated with improved cardiovascular health. The flavonoids in black tea can strengthen blood vessels, regulate blood pressure, and lower cholesterol levels, all contributing to a healthier heart.

3. Good for cognitive function

The presence of caffeine in black tea can increase alertness and improve cognitive function. Additionally, 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 beverage itself can promote overall hydration, which is important for maintaining a strong immune response.

5. Promotes healthy digestion

The tannins in black tea can have a positive effect on digestion. They are associated with reduced inflammation in the gut and can potentially ease digestive discomfort.

6. Promotes weight loss

Some studies suggest that compounds in black tea, particularly polyphenols, may aid in weight management by boosting 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.

Milk tea or milk tea is good for health.

Milk tea is quite popular in India. It combines black tea with milk, sugar or other sweeteners to create a creamy and delicious drink. However, its nutritional benefits depend on the added ingredients that determine the milk’s calorie, sugar and saturated fat content. So milk tea has both pros and cons.

Advantages of milk tea.

1. Useful for bones. Because milk tea provides essential nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D, and protein through the addition of milk, it is beneficial for bone health, immunity, and overall well-being.

2. Antioxidants. Milk tea contains antioxidants that can help fight oxidative stress, reducing the risk of chronic disease.

3. Caffeine. Milk tea often contains caffeine, which can increase alertness and cognitive function.

Read also: I replaced my doodh wali chai with green tea for a month and the results are beyond amazing

Disadvantages of milk tea.

1. High calorie and sugar content. Milk tea can be high in calories, especially full-fat milk and added sugar, which can contribute to weight gain and other health problems.

2. Digestive discomfort. For some people, the tannins in tea can cause digestive discomfort or irritation.

3. Bad for oral health. The sugar content in sweetened milk tea can contribute to dental problems, including tooth decay.

4. Caffeine sensitivity. Excessive caffeine intake can lead to adverse effects such as insomnia, increased heart rate, and nervousness, especially in those who are sensitive to caffeine.

5. Dehydration. Since caffeine is a diuretic, drinking too much milk tea can increase the number of times you have to go to the bathroom, which can lead to dehydration.

Which is better, black or milk?

Black tea offers a rich source of antioxidants such as flavonoids and potential cardiovascular benefits. It is not only an unsweetened and low-calorie drink; it actually offers a number 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 a day reduced the risk of death from any cause by nearly 9 to 13 percent.

Milk tea, on the other hand, combines black tea with milk, providing additional nutrients like calcium and vitamin D. However, the calorie content increases, especially with the addition of sugar, which can even lead to digestive problems. According to a study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, milk tea addiction can have harmful effects on mental health, such as anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation. Not only this, but it can also cause sleep problems, breakouts, acne and even constipation.

So the choice between black tea and milk tea is quite simple. Go for black tea when it comes to making healthier choices.