Atkins spills the tea on all the health benefits of this popular beverage.
More than half the American population drinks tea every day, and it is the most widely consumed beverage in the world, next to water. Unsweetened tea contains virtually zero calories and does not have sodium, fat, carbonation or sugar. This makes tea a powerful and flavorful addition to your low carb lifestyle, and it is also an excellent way to stay hydrated.
The Health Benefits of Drinking Tea
Tea contains anti-inflammatory antioxidants called polyphenols. Among these, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) seems to be the most potent, with green tea containing the highest levels of EGCG. Studies suggest drinking tea may have a variety of health benefits, including weight management and improving body composition, managing blood sugar levels and other factors involved in metabolic syndrome, reducing heart disease risk factors and having a protective effect against certain cancers.
Observational studies suggest drinking two to three cups of tea a day may the optimum amount for helping to provide these health benefits.
Adding Tea to Your Day
According to the Tea Association of the U.S.A., black is the most popular type of tea consumed, followed by green tea, and then oolong and white.
You can start your day by sipping a cup or two of green tea for a plant-powered caffeine boost, plus a solid boost of anti-inflammatory antioxidants. Cuddling up with calming chamomile tea or decaffeinated tea is a soothing addition to your bedtime routine, and a peppy iced tea can perk you up during the day.
Low Carb Tea Recipes
It is simple to brew up a cup of tea. Add 1 cup of boiling water to a mug with your tea bag of choice. Let the tea steep for about two minutes and remove the tea bag. Flavor with a dash of heavy cream or low-sugar creamer, or a squeeze of lemon, and enjoy.
Iced tea is also refreshing on a warm day or as an alternative to iced coffee. With the Tea Association of the U.S.A. calculating that 75 to 80% of tea consumed in America is iced. Keep reading for some refreshing and delicious iced tea recipes, plus a hibiscus-tea-infused detox smoothie and some other low carb recipes featuring tea as a unique and unexpected ingredient.
