Milk tea or black tea: which is better for you?

Some of us just can’t start the day without a cup of tea, right? We feel the need to refresh our minds and start our day. A morning cup of tea 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 one is better for you, Health Shots reached out to Eshanka Wahi, a health advocate and nutrition coach. Scroll down to find out more!

What is black tea good for?

Black tea, obtained from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, is known for its strong taste 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. Loaded with antioxidants

Black tea is rich in antioxidants, especially 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 improve blood vessel function, regulate blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels, contributing to a healthier heart.

3. Good for cognitive function

The presence of caffeine in black tea can improve alertness and improve cognitive function. In addition, 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 contribute to overall hydration, which is key to maintaining a strong immune response.

5. Promotes healthy digestion

Tannins in black tea can have a positive effect on digestion. They have been linked to a reduction in gut inflammation and can potentially ease digestive discomfort.

6. Helps in weight loss

Some studies suggest that compounds in black tea, especially polyphenols, may help with weight control by speeding up 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.

Is tea with milk or tea with milk good for health?

Milk tea is quite common in India. It combines black tea with milk, sugar or other sweeteners, creating a creamy and delicious drink. However, its nutritional benefits depend on the added ingredients, which determine the calorie, sugar and saturated fat content of milk. So, tea with milk has both advantages and disadvantages.

Benefits of tea with milk:

1. Good for bones: Because milk tea provides essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D and protein due to the addition of milk, it is good for bone health, immunity and general well-being.

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

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

Also read: I replaced my doodh vali chai with green tea for a month and the results are amazing

Disadvantages of milk tea:

1. High calorie and sugar content: Milk tea can be high in calories, especially with whole milk and added sugar, potentially contributing 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 of sweetened milk tea can contribute to dental problems, including tooth decay.

4. Sensitivity to caffeine: Excessive caffeine intake can lead to negative effects such as insomnia, rapid heart rate and nervousness, especially in those who are sensitive to caffeine.

5. Dehydration: Since caffeine is a diuretic, drinking too much tea with milk can increase your number of trips to the bathroom, which can cause dehydration.

Which is better: black or milk tea?

Black tea offers a rich source of antioxidants, such as flavonoids, and potential cardiovascular benefits. It’s not just 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 9-13 percent.

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

So the choice between black and milk tea is pretty clear. Go for black tea when it comes to the healthier choice!