Rooibos is a type of tea that is traditionally made in South Africa. It has an easy flavor with hints of vanilla and other unique tastes. In South Africa, the tea was traditionally used for medicine for hundreds of years, and the tea has zero calories on its own. There are many health benefits to this tea, such as those below.
Rich Antioxidants
One of the first health benefits of rooibos tea is that it contains a multitude of antioxidants. When the tea is made to be green, you will find even more. Two of the most helpful antioxidants are aspalathin and quercetin which can stop the growth of infected cells. Some researchers have found that the antioxidant levels in the liver and in the blood have improved with the continual use of this tea.
Improved Cardiovascular Health
Antioxidants are an essential part of the cardiovascular system in that they ensure your heart remains healthy. Rooibos tea not only supplies antioxidants, it also helps keep your cholesterol low. Studies have shown that the tea has reduced the levels of “bad” cholesterol in patient bloodstreams, while simultaneously increasing the numbers of “good” cholesterol. The tea has also been found to reduce blood pressure as it stops the ACE enzyme from increasing your blood pressure.
Helps with Diabetes Management
Individuals who drink rooibos tea on a normal basis and who may struggle with diabetes can lower their blood sugar levels. Aspalathin, which was mentioned above as an antioxidant in rooibos tea, can assist in lowering the levels aforementioned and can reduce risks for atherosclerosis. The antioxidant mentioned reduces the inflammation which can occur in the veins and arteries of the body, which in many cases are from diabetic complications. Be sure to drink the tea green to get as much of this antioxidant as possible.
Aids in Weight Loss
As mentioned above, rooibos tea has zero calories if you do not add milk, cream, or sugar. If you still want a tea or a hot drink though, consider adding this to your diet, especially if you are trying to lose weight. The tea has a delightful flavor so that you will be able to drink it without the additives mentioned. Leptin levels are also increased by use of the tea so that your body can regulate how much food you really need and can metabolize fat faster.
Fewer Signs of Aging
Final pieces of research have found that regular consumption of this tea can reduce the signs of aging. There are even some cosmetic products that are made to reduce wrinkles that include blends that contain the extracts used in rooibos tea. Wrinkles can be reduced through the use of this skin care product and through drinking the tea regularly.
Rooibos tea is gaining in popularity from its humble beginnings in South Africa. It has many health benefits such as those above, but other researchers have found that it has even helped in the control of allergies and digestive problems. Rooibos tea is a delicious drink which can even help improve and maintain your health. Interested in trying a cup of rooibos tea? Visit Mochas & Javas, a San Marcos coffee shop, at any of our San Marcos locations or at our coffee shop in Frisco.
