Green tea has received a lot of notoriety for its disease-preventing potential. But, is it actually good for you? And, should you drink it before bed time?
The Pros
Green tea has a complex chemical makeup, which includes the following beneficial nutrients:
- L-theanine amino acid
- Antioxidants and alkaloids
- Vitamins A, C, D, E, B, B5, K, and H in varying quantities
- Rich in manganese
- Contains zinc, selenium, and chromium
- Contains epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a powerful antioxidant
Research suggests that the flavanols, flavonoids, flavandiols, and phenolic acids in tea could offer protection against degenerative diseases. Studies also indicate that green tea may be able to reduce the risk of certain cancers. Some research has also found that green tea could also promote healthier weights in many people.
The Cons
While there is evidence that green tea may offer strong health benefits, there is also evidence it could cause health issues in certain people. Because the chemical composition of green tea is so complex, experts believe it could have both negative and positive impacts on people's health; however, more research is needed to confirm this.
Tea catechins can impact iron absorption, particularly in people who are at risk of iron deficiencies. Independent laboratories have also reported that tea quality can vary wildly, depending on the producer, with certain varieties containing toxic heavy metals and very few antioxidants. Due to the manner in which it is grown, green tea has also been found to contain trace levels of arsenic; however, government studies suggest the amounts may be too low to cause health problems.
Should I Drink Tea before Bed?
While there is some evidence that the body is better able to absorb nutrients during sleep, the difference is likely negligible. If you choose to drink tea, you can enjoy the potential benefits at any time of the day or night. Some people experience a calming effect after drinking a warm, cup of tea before bedtime. At the same time, it's important to choose a tea that is free of sleep-disrupting caffeine. You should also avoid adding sugar to your tea before bedtime, since sugar can promote wakefulness.
FAQs
Calm Your Body & Mind Before Bed
Is it good to drink tea before bed? ›
Having a cup of tea before bedtime can help create good sleep habits that the brain recognizes as a wind-down before slumber ( 27 ). Many find the warmth and aroma of tea comforting and soothing. Some teas are safe, easy options to try if you're having trouble sleeping ( 28 ).
Is drinking tea before bed good for weight loss? ›
Aids With Weight Management:
The brews can contribute to speeding up your metabolism rate before you go to bed. The thermogenic properties of the tea help promote fat burning. The polyphenols and catechins in tea also help speed up metabolic rate and signal your body to burn fat more quickly and efficiently.
Which tea is best to drink at night? ›
You don't want to have a lot of caffeine before you go to sleep, so if you're going to have tea before bed, you'll want something with very little to no caffeine. Caffeine-free herbal teas, like chamomile, valerian root, or peppermint, are excellent choices.
How long should you drink sleep tea before bed? ›
When Is the Ideal Time to Drink Sleepytime Tea? Like most liquids before bedtime, you should stop about two hours before you go to bed. The same goes the sleepytime tea. However, enjoy your tea well ahead of bedtime.
Is a cup of tea before bed healthy? ›
While caffeinated teas may not be ideal before bedtime, a TAP study concluded that even black and green tea — in addition to tisanes made from calming chamomile, lavender, rose, jasmine, and passionflower — possess qualities that can up relaxation and reduce stress.
Is it okay to drink tea at night everyday? ›
If you choose to drink tea, you can enjoy the potential benefits at any time of the day or night. Some people experience a calming effect after drinking a warm, cup of tea before bedtime. At the same time, it's important to choose a tea that is free of sleep-disrupting caffeine.
What tea burns belly fat? ›
Move over your usual cup of tea with milk and replace it with these three concoctions that will speed up your weight loss- Puerh tea (black tea), blue tea, green tea and white tea. These teas are said to not only help you burn your belly fat, but also speed up the metabolism that further helps in losing overall weight.
What tea burns fat at night? ›
Oolong tea burns fat while you sleep. Researchers at the University of Tsukuba have found that tea and caffeine help you lose weight while you sleep. The experts report that drinking two cups of oolong tea per day triggers the breakdown of fat overnight.
What drink burns fat at night? ›
Consuming healthy drinks before bedtime can be an excellent way to accelerate weight loss while promoting a good night's sleep. Cinnamon tea, soaked fenugreek seed water, ginger lemon tea, apple cider vinegar drink, and green tea are some of the best beverages for burning fat.
What Are the Best Herbal Teas for Anxiety and Stress?
- Chamomile. A well-known stress reliever, calming chamomile is a popular tea to soothe a troubled mind. ...
- Lavender. Lavender is another herb that is well-known for its soothing properties. ...
- Passionflower. ...
- Lemon Balm. ...
- Ashwagandha. ...
- Hawthorn Berry. ...
- NutraRelax.
Chamomile, spearmint, lavender and ashwagandha, in particular, are used for the promotion of sleep and relaxation.
What tea wakes you up the most? ›
Herbal tea ingredients like peppermint and ginger can also provide a stimulating, energizing effect for those who are trying to steer clear of caffeine entirely.
- Black tea. Black tea is a classic morning pick-me-up for a reason. ...
- Pu-erh tea. ...
- Matcha. ...
- Mate. ...
- Peppermint tea. ...
- Ginger tea.
"It's alright to take tea in morning or evening but it is good to avoid taking tea in breakfast or with proper meal," says Bharadwaj. Priya Palan, Dietitian, Zen Multispeciality Hospital, however, says it's okay to have tea with breakfast.
How to fall asleep fast? ›
How to fall asleep faster and sleep better
- Have good sleep routine (sleep hygiene)
- Relax, unwind and try meditation to help you sleep.
- Try mindfulness for sleep.
- Create the right sleep environment.
- Do not force sleep.
- Improve sleep through diet and exercise.
However, if you are anxious, easy to lose sleep, highly sensitive to caffeine or are taking certain medications, you'd better not drink too much tea nor to drink tea within 4 hours before your bedtime. And if the caffeine won't affect you in any way, you can drink tea anytime you want.
What is the best time to drink tea? ›
The best time to drink tea is an hour after breakfast or lunch, or in the evening along with some snacks. Nutritionists suggest alternatives like juice (without sugar), water infused with herbs, honey or lemon, or just plain warm water first thing in the morning to help kickstart your day.
What not to drink before bed? ›
Five drinks to avoid before going to bed
- Alcohol. It's no secret that alcohol makes you feel drowsy after a few drinks. ...
- Coffee. The caffeine in coffee can help wake you up in the morning. ...
- Energy Drinks. For obvious reasons, there is no use in having an energy drink before bed. ...
- Soda. ...
- Water.
If you are sensitive to caffeine, opting for a caffeinated tea may keep you awake at night, cutting into your sleep. Of course, you can always choose a decaffeinated tea or an herbal tea (which is naturally decaffeinated) for a soothing, sleep-friendly beverage.
