Worldwide, tea is by far the most popular prepared beverage. According to the Tea Council of Canada, Canadians drink more than seven billion cups of tea every year. The majority, 89 percent, of the tea consumed in Canada is a blend of black tea, commonly known as Orange Pekoe, which refers to leaf size and not flavour characteristics.

Ongoing studies show tea can play a role in reducing the risk of cancer and heart disease by preventing cell damage via substances called antioxidants and by reducing blood cholesterol. Specifically, black tea can help reduce heart disease and green tea can help reduce cancer risk.

Tea is a natural beverage containing no additives, artificial flavourings or colourings. It is also calorie free and contains no sodium, although the calories increase when cream and sugar are added. Regular black or green teas contain caffeine, about 30 milligrams per average-strength cup (compared to 150 milligrams found in a cup of coffee). It is recommended to keep caffeine intake below 400 milligrams per day. One potential downside of tea is that it contains tannins that in excess can interfere with the absorption of iron in meals. Drinking tea between meals instead of with meals helps minimize this concern. Tannins consumed excessively may also stain teeth.

Herbal teas do not generally contain caffeine and may offer some health benefits. Chamomile tea, for instance, may help ease stomach aches, headaches, indigestion and menstrual cramps and may even improve sleep. It should be avoided however, if you are allergic to ragweed. Peppermint tea may offer some relief for an irritable bowel and stomach cramps. Rosehip tea is considered a source of vitamin C; ginger tea may help alleviate nausea and menstrual cramps; raspberry tea may relieve morning sickness; and fennel tea may be helpful in stimulating appetite.

Overwaitea Foods is part of the Overwaitea Food Group. In 1915, as a clever way to thank loyal customers, the founder of our company began selling 18 ounces of tea for the price of 16. We became known as the place for “Over-Weight-Tea.”