Whether its iced or hot, drinking tea has many benefits. Because of these benefits, I will be drinking tea everyday this summer.

1. Tea has antioxidants.

In order for this to be effective, keep in mind it is important to have a steady diet and exercise regularly. Almost every tea you consume is full of antioxidants. The way the tea is processed is what determines the amount of antioxidants being consumed by the drinker. Some people may think that fruits and vegetables have more antioxidants than tea, but in reality tea has ten times more antioxidants.

2. Tea can reduce risk of heart attack and stroke.

There is a study that shows people who drink about two to four cups of tea a day can lower their risk of stroke by 20%. This tea needs to be green pr straight black. Green tea contains catechins which have an anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effect on the human body. Compounds such as this are what reduces the risk for stroke. There is further research being done as to how this happens.

3. Tea can boost your immune system.

It is proven that tea helps fight bacteria. There is an amino acid called L-theanine that has been proven to strengthen our immunity system. This amino acid is found in all true teas, expecially green tea. Specifically, this amino acid is found in matcha. Matcha also contains fiber that helps detoxify the body and improve digestion.

4. Tea (herbal) smoothes the digestive system.

Different teas work at different parts of the digestive tract. Some teas work at the esophagus, while other teas are more productive in the stomach or intestinal tract. Tea can help with nausea, be used as a laxative, or help boost metabolism. Either wwy, it is good to drink a glass of herbal tea a day to help benefit your gastrointestinal tract.

5. Tea helps protect your bones.

There are more studies being performed on this psrticular claim, but many scientists and researchers believe tea can help strengthn bones and prevent osteoporosis, specifically in women. According to researchers, tea has a component in it that closely mimics estrogen. This is beneficial in maintaining bone mineral density, specifally in older women.

Currently, my favorite tea is "winterberry" from Teavana. Unfortunately, this is a seasonal tea and I am almost out of it. I am hoping to find another tea I enjoy drinking just as much! What's your favorite tea?