Top Harvard doctor shares 5 steps to convert black tea into anti-inflammatory powerhouse

If you are a black tea lover, you would be surprised to learn that there is a smart way of turning your beverage into an anti-inflammatory powerhouse, which can further help reduce the chances of inflammation and help soothe the intestinal lining, reduce irritation, and restore balance to the gut microbiome. Reducing inflammation allows the gut to efficiently absorb nutrients, support immunity, and maintain a healthy barrier against toxins and pathogens. And if you are wondering how it can be done? Then scroll down to learn the five simple steps explained by Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford universities, who recently shared a reel on Instagram, where he explained the art of converting black tea into an anti-inflammatory powerhouse.

According to a study titled Health-Promoting Effects of Black Tea: A Narrative Review of Clinical Trials, published by PMC, it is indicated that consuming black tea regularly enhances endothelial and vascular health, notably by improving flow-mediated vasodilation. These advantages are largely due to the tea's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and gut microbiota–modulating effects, including the promotion of beneficial bacterial species such as Flavonifractor plautii. The potential health advantages of black tea are predominantly linked to its abundant polyphenol composition, specifically flavonoids, including catechins, theaflavins, and thearubigins. These bioactive constituents, along with caffeine, methylxanthines, vitamins, and volatile compounds, may exert antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and microbiota-modulating effects.

Another report titled Molecular evidences of health benefits of drinking black tea and published by PMC states that black tea is not only a non-sweetened or less-calorie drink but also provides several health benefits as it contains powerful groups of polyphenols including epigallocatechin gallate, theaflavins, thearubigins, an amino acid L-theanine, and several other catechins or flavonoids which provide protection against the onset of several chronic disorders. It also reads, as we know elevated cholesterol, high triglyceride level, and obesity are directly associated with a number of cardiovascular disorders including heart attack, which are now considered as number one cause of death in all over the world. Studies have shown that drinking black tea on a regular basis helps to reduce the chances of onset of cardiovascular disorders. The report also states that drinking black tea three cups per day can significantly improve the antioxidant status of the body and most importantly, no credible evidence was found by the team that showed black tea is harmful. Moreover, similar benefits of drinking black tea on the onset of risk factors of cardiovascular disorders were reported by Bahorun et al. through their randomized controlled clinical trial, the report states.

Start by boiling water with black tea leaves in it. Black tea is rich in polyphenols and antioxidants, he states in the video.

While it's brewing, add a small slice of fresh ginger. It increases gut motility and aids digestion.

Crush a few cardamom pods and drop them in. They help reduce bloating and add a naturally sweet aroma without sugar.

Add a small piece of clove. It contains eugenol, a compound that supports liver function, he adds in the video.

Once it's done brewing, strain the tea and let it cool slightly. Add a drizzle of honey, optional.

All Images Courtesy: istock

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is meant for general knowledge only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always talk to your doctor before starting any new routine.