Green Tea Vs Black Tea: Comparing Top Benefits of Green Tea and Black Tea

Tea is one of the most popular beverages in the world with over 3,000 varieties to choose from. A refreshing drink, a cup of tea can boost your energy when you feel lazy, tired, anxious or stressed. Among tea lovers, there exists a great debate on green tea vs black tea.  

Both the black and green tea leaves are derived from a plant called Camellia sinensis. The different ways of collecting and processing the leaves make them two unique products. The leaves and uppermost bloom of the plant are used to make both black and green tea. But is green tea as healthy as black tea or vice-versa? Read on to find out the truth.  

What are the differences in the making of green tea vs black tea? 

The green tea leaves that you see are completely natural, but black tea leaves go through the process of fermentation and oxidation.

Green tea 

• Leaves are collected and dried up  
• Then they are warmed by frying or steam 
• This is done so that the green tea leaves don’t get oxidized 
• This in turn maintains the color and flavor of the tea

Black tea  

• Leaves are collected, withered and later crumbled and carved 
• Then they are left to oxidize before they are hydrated 
• The enzymes present in the leaves get oxidized due to which the leaves start appearing darker in color 
• They get a stronger aroma and different essence  

Additional Read: Tea Tree Oil Benefits

Health benefits of green tea vs black tea 

Both black and green tea provide several benefits in their own way. Take a look at green tea and black tea benefits.

Green tea benefits 

Acts as a detoxifier  

A study to identify effects of green tea on rats exposed to lead poisoning found something remarkable. The rats that were given green tea supplements showed significantly less signs of lead poisoning than the other groups. This shows that green tea has a detoxifying effect and is able to eliminate dangerous toxins [1]. This can be applicable to humans too.

Helps in preventing cancer  

Green tea contains a significant amount of catechins and antioxidants, which not only help cleanse your body, but also prevent illnesses. These antioxidants work to eliminate free radicals that cause premature aging or diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Catechins like EGCG help prevent cancer and protect your heart health [2]. While the studies related to green tea cancer prevention are still ongoing, scientists believe certain compounds of green tea help protect cells from mutations that may lead to cancer [3].

Aids in weight loss  

One of the most sought-after benefits of green tea is how it can help you lose weight faster with the aid of exercise and a healthy diet. The caffeine content and catechins help your body speed up metabolism and burn the fats stored in your body quicker [4]. This also helps you maintain a healthy weight by making you feel fuller for longer periods of time.

Boosts the power of your immune system 

Green tea is great for stimulating your immunity. It contains tannins that help you fight viruses such as the influenza or common cold. Drinking a cup every day is a sure-shot way to stay healthy all year long.

Black tea benefits 

Gives a boost to your brain 

Black tea benefits your brain as it contains higher level of caffeine compared to green tea. Thus it is a better choice during work breaks. Black tea also increases the blood flow to the brain making you more focused and alert.

Aids in losing weight  

Black tea can also help you lose weight and stay fit. Research shows that drinking black tea is linked with increased weight loss [5].

Protects your heart health  

Drinking black tea is good for your heart as it helps lower LDL or bad cholesterol [6]. Excessive amounts of this cholesterol can lead to heart diseases or even heart attacks.

Additional Read: What is Caffeine

Green tea vs black tea: What to choose? 

Both green and black tea benefit your body by promoting heart health and aiding in weight loss. Deciding which tea works for you will depend on what suits your taste buds! Or you can simply drink both. The beauty of tea is that you can mix it up once in a while and discover a range of flavors and aromas. Try out the several different kinds of green and black tea to see which one appeases your palate and provides the health benefits that you require.

Understanding small differences in how nutrition impacts your body can go a long way in maintaining your health and well-being. While choosing suitable kinds of tea or any other health drinks, consider what will benefit your condition the most. Get doctor consultation online on Bajaj Finserv Health to understand nutrition better and create a healthy diet for yourself. You can also get guidance on the latest health trends with experts available on the platform, all from the comfort of your home. Knowledge is power and once you start prioritizing your health, there is no looking back. Start your healthy journey today