5 Health Benefits of White Tea (and Possible Side Effects)
White tea is a light and delicate-tasting beverage that offers many benefits to its consumer. Its limited oxidation and processing allow it to retain the majority of its antioxidants and other natural perks. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of white tea!
What is White tea?
One of the most delicate types of tea, White tea is made up of young, minimally processed Camellia Sinensis leaves. Known for its light color brew and sweet, floral flavors, white tea has been held in high regard for centuries.
What are some different types of White tea?
There are a few different popular varieties of white tea. Below is a list of some of the most well-known white teas, and links to our guides on everything you need to know about each one:
5 Health Benefits of White Tea:
1. Rich in antioxidants
White tea is a fabulous source of antioxidants that protect your cells from free radicals. In fact, research shows that white tea had the “highest radical-scavenging activity observed”.
2. May improve heart health
The polyphenols found in white tea may aid in the relaxation of blood vessels and may decrease the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, thereby lowering the risk of heart disease.
3. May reduce inflammation
White tea contains an antioxidant known as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) which is known to reduce inflammation. If you’re looking for a natural anti-inflammatory, white tea may be a great option to try.
4. May promote healthier skin and fewer wrinkles
Research has shown that white tea has anti-aging potential! A South West London study showed that white tea actually “prevented the activities of the enzymes which break down elastin and collagen which can lead to wrinkles that accompany aging”.
5. May aid oral health
The fluoride, catechins, and tannins found in white tea may help keep your mouth in tip-top shape! The trio helps to prevent cavities and inhibit the growth of plaque bacteria.
Possible Side Effects of White Tea:
White tea, when consumed in moderation, is generally considered safe for most people. However, there are always possible side effects. Some tea drinkers may be more sensitive to things like caffeine than others and may experience caffeine-related side effects. Furthermore, if you have specific health conditions, you may need to avoid beverages such as white tea. Always speak to your healthcare provider to clarify it if is safe for your personal situation.
1. Upset Stomach
The caffeine found in white tea may cause digestive issues, upset stomach, and/or nausea for those that are sensitive, or if it is consumed in large quantities.
2. Trouble Sleeping
It is not advisable to consume white tea before bed, as those that are caffeine-sensitive may experience things like difficulty sleeping, headache, jitteriness, or irregular heartbeat. If you experience any of these symptoms after drinking white tea, refrain from future consumption and contact your healthcare provider.
3. Use caution during pregnancy and while breastfeeding
It is recommended that pregnant and breastfeeding women avoid or limit their consumption of caffeine; discuss with your doctor what is best for your situation.
4. Use caution if you have heart conditions or high blood pressure
High levels of caffeine can cause irregular heartbeats and may also increase blood pressure in those with already high blood pressure. If you suffer from any heart conditions or hypertension, use caution and speak with your doctor before adding it to your diet.
In conclusion, White tea is a delicious beverage with several positive health benefits and may be a great drink option, when consumed in moderation, for many people.
Disclaimer: The information found in this post is for informational purposes only, and is in no way medical advice. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for any questions or concerns you have regarding your personal health situation and before introducing something new to your diet, such as White tea.