New evidence that a cup of much-loved hot drink 'boosts mood and attention'

New evidence that a cup of much-loved hot drink 'boosts mood and attention' A doctor has explained new research Could your daily cuppa be doing more than simply warming you up? Scientists are investigating how compounds naturally found in traditional black tea can help the brain stay calm and focused while potentially easing everyday stress. With Self-Care Week (November 16 to 22) approaching, there is another good reason to put the kettle on. Natural health chemist and tea researcher Dr Tim Bond, from the Tea Advisory Panel (TAP), said: “Drinking tea is well known to help you relax and feel calm. New real-world research reviewed by TAP involving 1,000 UK adults reveals that 90% feel better after sitting down with tea, while 31% make a cuppa when feeling stressed or overwhelmed.” What happens in the brain when we drink tea But there may be more to this comforting ritual than simply taking a break. Research is shedding light on what may happen in the brain when we drink tea. Dr Bond said: “L-theanine, a compound naturally found in tea, so a tea bioactive, may influence brain activity linked to relaxation and help reduce perceived stress without causing drowsiness. A major review of 50 randomised clinical trials found promising evidence that tea compounds, particularly L-theanine combined with caffeine, as found in black tea, may support attention and mood. That combination is particularly interesting because it suggests a traditional cup of black tea, with or without milk, could help us feel relaxed while remaining mentally alert.” “Black tea's calming effects are linked to the unique biological partnership between L-theanine and caffeine. L-theanine helps increase calming neurotransmitters in the brain, such as GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), serotonin and dopamine, while helping to regulate stress responses. Ensure our latest headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as a Preferred Source in your Google search settings. “A review of clinical studies found that natural plant bioactive compounds in black tea can decrease markers of stress (such as salivary chromogranin-A) and ease feelings of anxiety and tension. L-theanine also smooths out the stimulant edges of caffeine, contributing to a state of calm alertness. “L-theanine promotes alpha brain wave activity, which is associated with relaxation and reduces perceived stress and anxiety without making you feel tired while helping to improve your mental focus. “This could help explain why a cuppa can leave you feeling refreshed rather than sleepy. It is a feeling many Brits recognise, with six in 10 surveyed saying they drink tea to calm down.” Could tea also help protect your brain? Dr Bond added: “Tea is also rich in polyphenols, particularly flavonoids such as catechins. These have antioxidant properties, reducing oxidative stress in the body. “They are also being investigated for their potential role in supporting brain health and cognitive function, and protecting against processes linked to brain inflammation. While more research is needed, the findings add to growing scientific interest in the potential benefits of an everyday cup of tea.”