Green Tea, Black Tea, Herbal Tea: Healthful Beverage Choices

the leaves are dried, then fermented and fired.

Both green and black tea contain phytochemicals that have been linked to reduced
rates of certain types of cancers. When brewed at normal strength, both contain
about half of the caffeine found in a cup of coffee. If caffeine is a concern,
de-caffeinated teas are available.

Herbal teas are dried leaves of a wide variety of plants, which you steep in hot water
as you would regular tea. They are generally caffeine free. Many claims are made for
the phytochemicals found in herbal teas, but all we can safely say is: yes, they do
contain phytochemicals, which may be beneficial or harmful, depending on the plant
used and the amount you drink. If you have hay fever or other allergies, be aware
that herbal teas made from plants in the family you are sensitive to can trigger the
same reactions.

Tea appears to be healthful and may contribute phytochemicals to your diet that you
would not otherwise get. So enjoy your tea, but remember, what is beneficial in
moderation may be harmful in large amounts. That's true for all foods, not just tea. If
you need to drink more than a few cups of a beverage, make it water.

About The Author

Dr. Gabe Mirkin has been a radio talk show host for 25 years and practicing physician
for more than 40 years; he is board certified in four specialties, including sports
medicine. Read or listen to hundreds of his fitness and health reports at
. .

Green Tea, Black Tea, Herbal Tea: Healthful Beverage Choices
by Gabe Mirkin, M.D.

The health benefits of green tea
have been trumpeted in the
media recently. Even though the
claims may be exaggerated, if
you're going to drink much of
any beverage other than water,
tea is probably your best choice.

Tea is water plus phytochemicals
including caffeine, and very little
else unless you add a lot of
sugar. Both green and black tea
come from the same plant,
camellia sinensis. To make green
tea, the leaves are steamed,
rolled and dried. For black tea,

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The content on
this website is for educational purposes only. Please consult with your physician before using natural
remedies and before making any drastic changes to your diet or exercise program.