You may have heard us banging on about hydration. Specifically about hydration in the workplace. That’s because drinking water is essential for brain function. In order to work to the best of your ability, you need to be energised and hydrated. Sometimes though, drinking 8 glasses of still water a day can feel like a bit of an effort. Still water can be bland and unexciting.
However, what many people don’t know is that tea is classed as one of your 8 cups a day. There are so many different types of tea, you are truly spoilt for choice! Definitely a more exciting choice than water… Owing to this, we thought we’d teach you a little about our favourite types of tea in order to liven up your daily drinking habits. So next time you’re feeling the thirst at work, why not try a cup of tea instead.
Green Tea – Green Tea has been proclaimed as a super food. If that doesn’t tempt you to drink it, how about this. Some say owing to the way it is brewed, that it has more antioxidants than black tea. It has also been linked to helping with weight loss, preventing dementia and aiding good oral health! Green tea is rich in natural antioxidants and flavonoids and has close to zero calories. A healthy drink that can help cleanse your body of toxins – a definite winner in our books.
Black Tea – Usually drunk with milk and sugar, this is the most popular form of tea in the UK. Often classed as “builders tea”, this hot drink is traditionally drunk by the British all day, every day. Black tea is stronger in flavour than green tea and therefore is often diluted with milk. As a drink people usually turn to when tired or stressed, it is no surprise black tea has calming and relaxing benefits. Not only does it help slow you down after a long day, studies show that the amino acid L-theanine found in black tea can help you relax and concentrate better.
Earl Grey – Earl Grey is a tea blend which is flavoured with Bergamot. It arrived in England in the late 1820’s and was named Earl Grey after Charles Grey, the 2nd Earl Grey who was British Prime Minister in the 1830’s. Though traditionally associated with the upper classes, Earl Grey is widely available for purchase in supermarkets as either loose leaf or in tea bags. It is said that the bergamot found within Earl Grey is said to improve the immune system. As such, it’s considered to be a natural cold remedy. A cup a day keeps the doctor away!
Chai Tea – Originating from India, Chai tea uses an infusion of warming spices. The spices used vary from region to region and among households in India. The most common are cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and pepper. Chai tea can be served with or without milk, but traditionally is served with a heavy, milk and sweetener. When served traditionally with milk and sugar, it is a little more luxurious than other teas. However, when served on its own with water, the combination of spices are beneficial to the immune system. Ginger, which can be found in chai tea has many medicinal properties. It aids digestion, reduces inflammation, and has been linked to weight loss.
These are just a few examples of our favourite types of tea. There are dozens more available, including flavoured green tea, jasmine tea, chamomile and more. For instant warming drinks in your workplace, switch to a Billi tap and get boiling water at the touch of a button. The perfect addition to an office addicted to tea, without having to wait for the kettle to boil!