Black or Green Tea: Which is Healthier?

Green tea and black tea come from the same plant. So the botanical origin says nothing about which of the two types of tea is healthier. Due to their caffeine content, both have a stimulating effect. Unlike black tea, green tea also contains the amino acid L-theanine. It can reduce the stimulating effect of caffeine and have a relaxing and calming effect. Green tea is also one of the dehydrating teas.

Unsweetened and drunk without milk, both teas are calorie-free. However, they are no longer prepared as bubble tea, since they are mixed with sweetened condensed milk and fruit juice. Sweetness in the form of sugar is also added to the fermented tea drink Kombucha. In return, they provide significant amounts of fluoride and polyphenols, a subset of what are known as phytochemicals. For the production of green tea, however, the leaves of the tea plant are only dried, while for black tea they are additionally mechanically crushed and fermented in a humid environment until their color changes. Some of the polyphenols contained in tea, which have a positive effect on health, are lost through the fermentation process. In this respect, the less processed green tea could be considered healthier.

Among other things, the secondary plant substances are said to have a preventive effect on cardiovascular diseases. They are also said to have an anti-inflammatory effect and stimulate the killer cells of the immune system. Certain compounds from the group of polyphenols could possibly even have a cancer-preventing effect. The fluoride contained in both teas also prevents tooth decay and thus contributes to dental health. Anyone who enjoys sweets at tea time, however, negates this effect.

In the case of mild stomach and intestinal problems, on the other hand, the tannins contained in black tea can have a positive effect. The tea can thus be used as a home remedy for minor complaints in this area. However, a doctor should be consulted if gastrointestinal problems persist.

People with low iron levels should not drink green or black tea immediately with meals. The iron contained in the food can form a poorly soluble compound with the polyphenols in the tea. As a result, the body can no longer utilize iron as well.