Following are excerpts from an article by Gina Roberts-Grey in the Oprah Magazine, July 2012 issue:

The Tea Rx. It can warm your soul or cool you off on a sweaty summer day – but did you know that tea can also prevent the formation of brain plaques associated with Alzheimer’s disease? And that’s not all: A potful of research is showing how various brews can ward off pathogens, hypertensions, even cancer. Check out these four healing cups:

1. Darjeeling. More than half the global population harbors a pathogen called H. pylori; 15-20 percent of those people develop ailments including ulcers, gastritis, and gastric cancer. But in a recent study, scientists found that various teas inhibit H. pylori – and that Darjeeling steeped for five minutes has the greatest effect. Just hold the milk; it can block the activity of compounds in the tea.
2. Oolong/Green. According to a study of more than 1500 subjects, a half cup to two and a half cups daily of oolong tea or the more famous health star green tea can lower a person’s risk of hypertension by 46 percent. Oolong and green tea are rich in antioxidants that help control an enzyme that raises blood pressure.
3. Black. Four antioxidant compounds (called theaflavins) found in black tea appear to protect the brain from disease in a very specific way. Last year a group of German researchers published findings stating that these compounds prevented the formation of senile plaques, which contribute to the development and progression of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
4. Yerba Mate. In a 2011 study, scientists added yerba mate to petri dishes containing colon cancer cells. “Put simply, the cancer cells self-destructed.” says study author Elvira Gonzalez. “Caffeine-related compounds in the tea damaged their DNA.” More research is needed but Elvira is optimistic that yerba mate could help the body fend off colon cancer.

My comments: Drinking soda or sugar coffee drinks is extremely unhealthy and unnecessary for an enjoyable life. Switching to water and (unsweetened) tea as your default drinks is not a difficult habit to form and has many health benefits.

[Photo of my favorite green tea by Twinings] Read more bits on healthy habits in my book, Dhinchak Life