A growing list of benefits – from cognitive to cardiovascular to cancer prevention – suggest tea might be an optimal beverage for many seniors. True teas and some tisanes (herbal teas) are chock full of flavonoids. These antioxidants act on free radicals, neutralizing the havoc-wreaking molecules before they can cause damage to the body. Research suggests that flavonoids and other antioxidants present in tea can be credited with preventing a whole host of health issues, including but not limited to inflammation, diabetes, cognitive decline, heart disease and even cancer.
Flavonoids and other antioxidants in tea can be credited with preventing a whole host of health issues, including but not limited to inflammation, diabetes, cognitive decline, heart disease and even cancer.
Health benefits of true teas
True teas include green, black, white and oolong teas. Despite their separate names, each type actually comes from the same plant: camellia sinensis. The difference between the types has to do with how the leaves are processed.
White and green tea are both bursting with catechins, which are known to lower inflammation and positively affect autoimmune disorders. At the same time, catechins also bolster the immune system and limit germs’ ability to mount a successful infection. Both green and black teas are also teeming with polyphenols, which bind with toxic molecules and relax blood vessels, thus protecting from dementia, stroke and heart attack, among other diseases and adverse health events. To top off this tasty beverage’s benefits, black tea consumption was also linked to higher bone density in a study of postmenopausal Japanese women.
White tea
- Lowers inflammation
- Boosts immune system
Green tea
- Lowers inflammation
- Boosts immune system
- Protects from dementia, stroke and heart attack
Black tea
- Protects from dementia, stroke and heart attack
- Linked to higher bone density
Just two to three cups of true tea per day might also help protect against stroke and dementia. Moderate tea consumption is correlated with a 32% reduction in stroke risk and a 28% reduction in the risk of dementia.
Just two to three cups of true tea per day might also help protect against stroke and dementia.
Tea has also been linked with a lower risk of cardiovascular problems and metabolic diseases like diabetes. And while more research is needed to determine tea’s anti-cancer effects, the flavonoids present suggest it may be able to boost the body’s natural defenses.
Health benefits of tisanes
Technically, if it doesn’t come from camellia sinensis, it’s a tisane, not a tea. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t benefits to be had. While more research is needed, many tisanes like chamomile, ginger and peppermint are worth considering, as they also contain antioxidants that could reduce inflammation. These teas may also help with daily ailments, potentially soothing colds and upset stomachs as well as aiding with sleep.
Chamomile
From reducing inflammation to possibly preventing cancer and osteoporosis – and also having a positive effect on diabetes – chamomile tea has been linked to many health benefits, and long been used as a sleep aid and to relieve cold symptoms (though there’s a lack of studies to determine efficacy).
Ginger
Ginger tea is an excellent one to have on hand for upset stomach and indigestion, as it can help ease both nausea and heartburn. Like true teas and chamomile, ginger can also assist in reducing inflammation and lessening discomfort from the symptoms of the common cold. Not everyone has the same reaction, however, and some people may find ginger to be too spicy.
Peppermint
If ginger isn’t tolerated, peppermint tea is another good one to keep in the cupboard for soothing upset stomachs and relieving the symptoms of colds and other respiratory infections. It can also help with headaches and may give the drinker a boost of energy.
The best teas for seniors
Rich in antioxidants, this organic tea has a mild flavor that isn’t “grassy” like many brands can be. Green tea, like all true teas, can be prepared by steeping in hot water for a few minutes or in cold water over a much longer period of time. True teas have been shown to retain a higher level of antioxidants when steeped in cold water versus hot and often retain less bitterness as well.
This certified-organic, non-GMO white tea has a light flavor with floral hints that are not overpowering.
Oolong represents the best of green and black tea combined, with plenty of antioxidants and fragrance teamed with a mild flavor.
True teas do contain caffeine, so consider how well the older adult tolerates the stimulant as well as the time of day it’s being consumed. However, the combination of caffeine and theanine in these teas has the potential to positively impact cognition by producing an alertness that’s calm instead of jittery. Black tea has the highest caffeine content of the true teas.
Chamomile does not contain any caffeine. Instead, it’s widely thought to help lull its drinkers to sleep. Some people can be allergic to chamomile and drug interactions can also occur, so caution is warranted. Specifically, warfarin and cyclosporine have been known to interact with chamomile, so consult a health care provider about potential interactions.
Ginger tea can come in different forms, so select the root tea instead of the instant type, which contains a significant amount of sugar.
This tasty caffeine-free tisane is certified organic by the USDA and carries the Rainforest Alliance seal.