Chai tea is a traditional Indian drink, made from black tea, milk, sugar, herbs and spices (cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, star anise and cloves).
This delicious and comforting drink has health benefits. Here are five.
A tea that aids digestion
Drinking chai could aid digestion. The spices it contains, notably ginger and cardamomare known for their digestive properties.
Certain compounds found in ginger, such as shogaols and gingerols, may relieve nausea by stimulating the flow of saliva, gastric secretions, and blocking serotonin production (excess serotonin can cause nausea).
Chai also helps reduce gas and bloating.
A tea that protects the heart
The black tea used to prepare chai contains flavanoids, powerful antioxidant compounds.
Several studies have shown that regular consumption of black tea is associated with a significant reduction in the risk of hypertension, heart attack and stroke.
A study has also shown that the consumption of black tea contributes to reducing the rate of bad cholesterol (LDL) in people with hypercholesterolemia. As a reminder, excess LDL in the blood increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.
The spices contained in chai are also good for the heart. For example, cardamom is a natural antihypertensive (it lowers blood pressure).
A tea that reduces the risk of cancer
Recent studies have shown that regular consumption of black tea (contained in chai) helps reduce the risk of developing certain cancers.
The antioxidants present in black tea, including polyphenols and flavanoids, play an important role in neutralizing free radicals in the body. Free radicals are responsible for oxidative stress, a risk factor for cancer.
Although the effects of black tea on the development of cancer have not been precisely explained, scientific evidence shows that regular consumption of black tea may be effective in reducing the risk of developing certain types of cancer (ovarian, breast, endometrium). , liver and oral cancers).
A tea that preserves cognitive functions
The black tea present in chai also has beneficial effects on the brain, when consumed regularly.
The black tea contains compounds such as theaflavins and thearubigins, known to improve memory, concentration and information processing abilities.
A tea with anti-inflammatory properties
This is undoubtedly the best-known health benefit of chai: its anti-inflammatory properties.
The combination of several spices such as ginger, cinnamon and cloves constitutes a cocktail of powerful natural anti-inflammatories.
These spices reduce inflammation and help fight chronic inflammation which can promote the occurrence of certain diseases (cancer, diabetes, etc.).
Journalist
June 5, 2024, at 12:37 p.m.
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