10 HEALTH BENEFITS OF DRINKING CHAI

Hey there fellow tea-lovers! To those of you just discovering chai for the first time, we are so happy you are here. We are a lil’ bit biassed, but we think chai is the bees knees, not only because it tastes DELISH, but it is actually packed with heaps of health benefits.

So, what exactly is chai? Chai is made by brewing black tea with a mixture of aromatic spices, such as cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and black pepper, (to name just a few) and is typically sweetened with honey. 

In recent years, chai has gained popularity as a healthful alternative to coffee, with many people choosing to drink chai for its health benefits and lower caffeine content. Let's take a look at some of the many ways chai can do wonders for your body:

1. Antioxidant Properties

Chai is packed with antioxidants that protect the body against oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Antioxidants are known to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease. The black tea used in chai contains flavonoids, a type of antioxidant that helps prevent damage to the body's cells. Additionally, the spices used in chai such as cinnamon have been shown to have antioxidant properties, further enhancing the tea's health benefits. 

2. Improved Digestion

Many of the spices in chai, such as ginger and cardamom, are known to aid in digestion and relieve stomach discomfort. Drinking chai after a meal can help soothe your stomach and aid in the digestion process. The spices used in chai stimulate the digestive system and promote the production of digestive enzymes, helping to alleviate digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and indigestion. 

3. Reduced Inflammation

The blend of spices used in chai, including ginger and cloves, have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation is linked to several health conditions including heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. The anti-inflammatory properties of chai may help reduce the risk of these chronic conditions and improve overall health. 

4. Lowered Risk of Heart Disease

Drinking chai may help reduce the risk of heart disease. The antioxidants in chai can reduce the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which is a risk factor for heart disease. Additionally, the black tea used in chai has been shown to reduce blood pressure and improve blood vessel function, which can help improve overall cardiovascular health.

5. Improved Mental Alertness

Chai contains caffeine, which can help improve mental alertness and concentration. Caffeine is a natural stimulant that can improve cognitive function and increase energy levels. Additionally, the combination of caffeine and L-theanine (an amino acid found in tea)  has been shown to improve mental focus and reduce mental fatigue, which makes chai a great beverage to sip on during work or study sessions.

6. Lowered Risk of Diabetes

The spices used in chai, such as cinnamon and ginger, have been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels, and insulin resistance is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Drinking chai may help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity.

7. Reduced Stress and Anxiety

The combination of caffeine and L-theanine in chai has been shown to have a calming effect and reduce stress and anxiety. L-theanine is an amino acid that promotes relaxation and reduces stress levels, while caffeine can improve mental alertness and concentration. Drinking chai can provide a natural way to manage stress and anxiety without the negative side effects of pharmaceutical drugs.

8. Improved Immune Function

The spices in chai, especially ginger and black pepper, have natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help strengthen your immune system and ward off illnesses. Additionally, the antioxidants in chai can help strengthen the immune system and protect against oxidative stress, which can weaken the immune system.

9. Reduced Menstrual Pain

Chai's blend of spices, particularly ginger, has been shown to help reduce menstrual pain and cramps. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can be an effective natural remedy for menstrual discomfort.

10. Provides Energy

 The caffeine in black tea and the natural sweetness in chai can help give you a quick energy boost without the crash that comes with sugary drinks or energy drinks.

So, there you have it - there are many ways fresh chai can benefit your body! If you haven't already, give this delicious and healthy beverage a try. And remember, the fresher the chai, the better the taste and health benefits!

Curious to know more health benefits of tea?  Check out “Why You Should Drink Organic Tea” to find out all of the perks!