Breakthrough research shows tea's true benefits

A REFRESHING CUP OF TEA CAN HELP TO MAXIMISE YOUR DAILY PERFORMANCE

Emerging research on an amino acid in tea called Theanine¹, is beginning to shed light on the unique effects felt by tea drinkers that are so different to other hot beverages.  Research presented at the Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA) 24th Annual Conference is starting to show why drinking tea may promote a relaxed yet alert state of mind¹.

Scientists at Oxford University believe that Theanine, a natural component found almost exclusively in tea, contributes an important role to the mental stimulatory effects of a cup of tea.  Early research suggests that just 50mg of Theanine (found in 2-3 cups of tea) naturally stimulates specific brain activity, known as alpha waves.  The alpha wave frequency in the brain is termed a relaxed yet alert state of mind¹.

The Oxford University findings reinforced earlier research carried out by Japanese scientists.

Gail Owen, a bio psychologist and Lead Scientist at the Beverages Global Technology Centre in the United Kingdom and says “Research is showing that the alertness felt by drinking tea throughout the day has always been attributed to the existence of caffeine, we now believe that there is another component in tea which is responsible for the unique effect that people feel from tea and that is Theanine.

“Theanine is a natural component found almost exclusively in tea. It is shown to promote alpha brain waves in the brain which are associated with a relaxed yet alert state of mind. This state is often predominant in successful sportspeople.  With a relaxed yet alert state of mind, a desirable state for thinking and operating is created.   

“Imagine if you could produce a state of mental clarity simply by drinking tea, the world’s most popular natural drink, second to water.”

One of Australia’s leading nutritionists, self-confessed tea lover Catherine Saxelby, says:  “Tea has long been known for its rejuvenating effects – to revive, relax and refresh all at the same time.

“Each cup of Lipton quality black tea naturally contains 14-18mg of Theanine.  By understanding the benefits of Theanine has on our bodies we are beginning to understand what tea drinkers have always known; that having a cup of tea can be beneficial to your health and state of mind. 

“Clearly, there is more magic in tea than we first realised.”

Further health benefits of tea include:

• A great source of flavonoid antioxidants^{2, 3} Antioxidants may help us to maintain healthy cells and tissues by reinforcing our body’s natural defence system.
  
  
• Provides a great way to help keep your body refreshed and quench your thirst.⁴
  
  
• When drunk on its own (without milk or sugar) tea contains virtually no kilojoules or calories.
  
  
• There is a link between regular tea consumption and heart health - drinking three cups of tea per day may help with heart health.

Dr Janet Bryan, psychologist at the University of South Australia comments: “Mental clarity is an exciting area of research and these promising studies have uncovered some exciting facts about the role of Theanine in tea.  While the findings are complex and need further research – particularly into more complex cognitive tasks – early indications are very positive.”

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