Many people replace water with different drinks for flavor. Some stockpile zero-calorie beverages, while others continuously sip coffee. Similarly, Tea is often used as the most popular water substitute. In China, it is widespread to drink tea instead of water. But can we replace water with tea? Let’s explore different types of tea that can truly substitute water.
Teas You Can Drink Daily
Grain-based Tea
Grain-based tea is safe to drink daily, just like the grains we consume. The minerals in grains are known to balance the electrolytes in our bodies. The electrolytes play an essential role in the kidneys, filtering out waste. Grain tea is a good substitute for water as it prevents thirst.
Hibiscus Tea
Hibiscus tea is popular due to its weight loss benefits. The catechins and gallic acid it contains break down fat and stimulate metabolism. Hibiscus tea also contains anthocyanins, which are good for vision protection. Not only is it beneficial for the body, but hibiscus tea also contains no caffeine, making it a suitable substitute for water.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile, a member of the daisy family, is often referred to as “ground apple.” Chamomile tea contains antioxidants such as terpenes and flavonoids, which offer calming and antibacterial benefits, enhance the immune system, and promote better sleep. Being caffeine-free, it can be consumed as a regular hydrating alternative to water.
Rooibos Tea
Rooibos tea is made from a legume shrub that grows in the highlands of Cape Town, South Africa. It was initially consumed as a substitute for black tea due to its similar color. Rooibos alleviate allergy symptoms and even aid in skin beauty with their antioxidants. As it is caffeine-free, Rooibos tea can also be consumed like water. However, it has a side effect of diarrhea to look out for.
Teas You Cannot Drink Instead of Water
Green Tea
When most people talk about tea, green tea is the first thing that comes to mind. Green tea is known for its antioxidant and rich vitamin content, as well as its ability to remove fat from the body. That’s why it’s often used in weight loss programs. However, green tea contains a high amount of caffeine, which cannot be substituted for water.
Dandelion Tea
Solomon’s seed tea has a rich and aromatic taste and is a popular choice. Drinking Solomon’s seed tea helps blood circulation and is believed to be effective for heart diseases. It also strengthens lung function, stimulates digestion, and relieves hangovers. However, it can increase heart rate for those with high blood pressure. Overconsumption can also lead to abdominal pain and diarrhea, making this tea not adequate as a water substitute.
Corn Silk Tea
Corn silk tea is made by boiling corn silk and roasted corn. In Korea, it is known as diet tea. Corn silk tea has excellent antioxidant properties, which remove toxins from the body. However, due to its diuretic effects, it can lead to dehydration and strain on the kidneys.
Black Tea
Black tea, as the name suggests, is a tea that has a black hue. It is brewed with naturally oxidized tea leaves. Black tea has been shown to prevent aging and lower cholesterol. However, black tea also contains a large amount of caffeine. If you replace water with black tea, you may consume too much caffeine.
Japanese raisin tea
Japanese raisin tea bark tea comes from the fruit of the Japanese raisin plant. It has a subtle aroma is particularly effective in detoxifying the liver, making it a perfect hangover cure. However, the fruit can be toxic when taken in large amounts and cannot replace water.
Cassia Seed Tea
Cassia seed is a member of the barley family. Used in traditional Chinese medicine, it has a unique taste that many enjoy and is mainly known for brightening the eyes. It can also relieve constipation, improve liver function, and alleviate high blood pressure. It is also effective in hangovers. However, the diuretic properties can lead you to urinate more water than you drink.
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