시간대에 맞게 마시면 더 좋은 차 종류 소개
As a result, more people are turning to tea as a healthier alternative. Tea not only offers unique flavors and aromas but also provides a range of health benefits. With varying caffeine levels, teas can be tailored to individual preferences and health needs, making them a versatile substitute for coffee.
This article explores various teas that can serve as coffee alternatives, outlining their health benefits and the optimal times to enjoy them.
Caffeinated Teas
Caffeinated teas offer a similar energizing effect to coffee, making them ideal for mornings or times when focus is needed. However, like coffee, excessive consumption of caffeinated teas can cause insomnia or elevated heart rate. It’s crucial to consider individual caffeine sensitivity and consume these teas in moderation.
1. Mate Tea
Mate tea, a traditional South American beverage, contains less caffeine than coffee, offering sustained energy without jitteriness. For comparison, a tall iced Americano has about 130 mg of caffeine, while a cup of mate tea contains around 50 mg. Rich in antioxidants, mate tea supports recovery from fatigue and strengthens immunity.
2. Black Tea
With approximately 60 mg of caffeine per cup, black tea offers a milder alternative to coffee. Its diverse flavors and rich aroma make it an enjoyable option. When mixed with milk to create a milk tea, it delivers a smooth, nutty taste. Black tea is high in polyphenols, antioxidants that help regulate blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and promote cardiovascular health over time.
3. Green Tea
Green tea, known for its light and subtle flavor, contains about 30 mg of caffeine per cup, making it a low-caffeine option. It is rich in catechins—powerful antioxidants that enhance metabolism and reduce inflammation, supporting overall health. Matcha, however, is made from finely ground whole tea leaves and contains significantly more caffeine, so it should be chosen with care by those limiting caffeine intake.
Caffeine-Free Teas
For those avoiding caffeine, certain teas provide robust flavor and health benefits without the stimulating effects. These are particularly suitable for caffeine-sensitive individuals or for evening relaxation. Caffeine-free teas excel at promoting relaxation and stress relief, and understanding their properties can help balance health and taste preferences.
1. Rooibos Tea
Rooibos, a naturally caffeine-free South African herbal tea, has a sweet, nutty flavor and can serve as a refreshing alternative to water. It contains aspalathin, a potent antioxidant that helps regulate blood sugar levels. Rooibos is also rich in quercetin, which may help alleviate digestive discomforts such as diarrhea and nausea.
2. Chicory Coffee
chicory coffee mimics the rich taste and aroma of coffee but is naturally caffeine-free. Popular in Europe as a coffee substitute, it is high in inulin, a prebiotic fiber that supports gut health and digestion. It is a suitable choice for individuals with gastrointestinal sensitivities who want a coffee-like experience without caffeine.
3. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is renowned for its stress-relieving and sleep-inducing properties. Its gentle floral aroma soothes the mind and eases tension, making it ideal for evenings or moments of rest. A warm cup of chamomile tea after dinner can promote relaxation and support a healthy sleep cycle.
4. Hojicha
Hojicha, a Japanese roasted green tea, has a nutty, mellow flavor and contains minimal caffeine due to the roasting process. Unlike standard green tea, it has little bitterness, making it suitable for any time of day. Hojicha provides catechins, which support fat metabolism, and L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and reduces stress, making it a beneficial evening choice.
5. Barley Tea
Barley tea, widely consumed in Korea and Japan, is a caffeine-free grain tea with a toasty, smooth flavor. It maintains its taste even when served cold, making it a refreshing option in summer. Rich in antioxidants and beta-glucans, barley tea helps lower cholesterol synthesis and blood triglycerides, supporting cardiovascular health. However, because it also contains potassium, individuals with kidney disease should drink it cautiously.
Best Teas for Morning, Afternoon, and Evening
For mornings, energizing options like mate tea or rooibos can provide sustained energy and stable blood sugar. In the afternoon, chicory coffee, black tea, or green tea are suitable for maintaining focus and energy. In the evening, calming caffeine-free teas such as chamomile or hojicha can promote relaxation and restful sleep.
Haeun Oh, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM
press@hinews.co.kr
