Tea helps to fight cavities and a host of other diseases

Along with the common cold and gum disease, cavities are among the most common human afflictions. Studies, by research associations, have found drinking of black tea regularly reduced plaque and helped control bacteria. It was found that black tea could inhibit or suppress the growth of bacteria that promotes cavities and affect their ability to attach to tooth surfaces.

Dental plaque contains more than 300 species of bacteria that adhere to tooth surfaces and produce acid that lead to cavities. Plaque is also a leading cause of gum disease. Black tea was found to have antioxidant compounds polyphenols, which is suspected to kill or suppress cavity causing bacteria from either growing or producing acid. Tea also affected the bacterial enzymes and prevented the formation of the sticky-like material that binds plaque to teeth. It is however necessary that, to help prevent cavities the tea must truly be "black," without sugar, milk, honey or other additives.

As part of the study participants in the study rinsed with tea for 30 seconds, five times, waiting three minutes between each rinse to stimulate what people did while sipping tea. Whereas in a similar study by Goeteborg University, participants rinsed with tea for one minute 10 times per day, showed comparable results. Both studies showed that the more people rinsed, the more their plaque and bacteria levels fell.

Fluoride is another mineral found in great abundance in tea. In fact, tea is one of the very few natural sources of fluoride. Fluoride has made its mark as the most successful agent against tooth decay. Researchers looked at the impact of black tea's fluoride content on preventing cavities but found the benefits less clear as compared to polyphenols.

The polyphenols, found in tea are also found to harbor anti-cancer and anti-heart disease effects. Black tea also helps in managing gastric and intestinal disorders because of its tannins, which decrease intestinal activity and exerts an anti-diarrhea effect.

Black tea also contains theophylline. In addition to improving circulation, the theophylline in black tea helps improve cholesterol levels. It also has been known to expand the airways, making breathing easier for asthmatics. Both green and black teas also contain antioxidants known as flavenoids. Flavenoids play a critical role in protecting us from heart disease and cancer.

The benefits of this cup that cheers seems to be many fold so enjoy your tea and enjoy your health but remember no additives please!