Black vs Green – Tea that is!

Earlier this month I read an article over at HealthCentral.com regarding a U.S. study from Georgetown University that stated drinking black tea increased the risk of RA in post-menopausal women. Apparently women between the ages of 50 and 79 who drink black tea increase their risk of developing RA by 40%. Women who drink more than 4 cups a day increased their risk by a whopping 78%.

My first thought with was, RA strikes most of us long before we reach the post-menopausal stage, often in our mid to late 20’s; so just how important is this study to the onset of RA? But for those of you do not have RA and have reached the post-menopausal age you may want to cut out or cut back your black tea consumption or at least investigate this claim a bit further.

I searched the net to see if I could find any information on the effects these teas had on RA patients.

This is what I found.

Black Tea

• Contains an anti-oxidant called quercelin which fights inflammation and helps with a healthy immune function.
• Reduces the risk of stroke and heart attacks.
• Reduces the production of LDL – bad cholesterol
• Has less caffeine than coffee
• Slows the absorption of blood sugar

While I was researching for this post I came across this unique Libre Tea Glass – for those who like to enjoy their loose tea on the go!

Green Tea

There is almost nothing but positive information about green tea.

•  Has antioxidant called EGCG (Epigallocatechin gallate) may decrease inflammation by blocking the chemical chain reaction and help prevent joint damage in RA
• Has less caffeine than coffee and black tea
• Contains amino acid L-theanine which helps to relieve stress
•  Helps avoid tooth decay and helps create healthy gums
• Reduces the risk of stroke and heart attacks
•  Helps prevent cognitive damage
• Promotes weight loss
• Increases energy levels
•  Helps promote a healthy bowel function (I did find one site where someone became constipated after increasing her use)

Tea Plantation

It’s interesting that both teas claim different health benefits (mostly). I love my cups of tea, usually black, but after looking at all these results I plan to switch some of those cups to green tea. I want the best of both worlds.

I also recently read about drinking 1 cup of red wine a day reducing the onset of RA by 50%.  I wish I’d known that in my early 20’s, lol. I will say, on a personal note, one glass of wine or alcoholic beverage does reduce my stress level and takes the edge off my pain.

Please note:

1) Alcohol abuse is linked to liver cirrhosis, cardiovascular disease, fetal abnormalities, various cancers, chronic inflammation, etc. and increases the risks of hemorrhagic strokes due to its anti-clotting effects.

2) Caution must always be taken when mixing alcohol with any prescription medications.