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Are there any health benefits to drinking international drinks?

Jaunita Hanselman

Well, well, well. Are you curious about whether or not there are any health benefits to drinking international drinks? I am so excited to share with you the possible perks of indulging in some global sips.

First off, let's define what we mean by "international drinks." In this context, we're talking about beverages that come from different countries or cultures. Think green tea from Japan, yerba mate from Argentina, chai from India, kombucha from China, and so on. These drinks have been enjoyed and touted for their supposed medicinal or health-enhancing properties for centuries.

Now, let's dive into the potential benefits of these drinks.

Green tea has been researched extensively and is known to have high levels of antioxidants, which can protect against cell damage and lower the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. It's also been shown to have calming properties, thanks to the amino acid L-theanine, which may help reduce stress levels. Green tea may even boost brain function and help with weight management by increasing metabolism.

Yerba mate, a traditional South American drink made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant, is often touted for its energy-boosting effects. It contains caffeine, theobromine (also found in chocolate), and theophylline (found in tea), which together can promote alertness without the jitters that come with coffee. Yerba mate also has antioxidant properties, and some studies have linked it to reduced risk of heart disease and improved cholesterol levels.

Chai tea, a blend of black tea and spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, has been used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. The spices in chai have been linked to a range of health benefits, such as improving digestion, reducing inflammation, and boosting immune function. Cinnamon, in particular, has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

Kombucha, a fermented tea drink that originated in China, has gained popularity in recent years for its supposed benefits to gut health. It's made by fermenting sweet tea with a SCOBY (symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast), which results in a fizzy, tangy drink. Kombucha contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can improve digestion and boost immune function. It also has antioxidants and may help reduce inflammation in the body.

Of course, it's worth noting that scientific research on the health benefits of these drinks is still ongoing and sometimes conflicting. Some studies may find benefits, while others may not. It's also important to remember that these drinks aren't a substitute for a healthy, balanced diet and lifestyle.

That being said, there's no harm in enjoying a cup of green tea, yerba mate, chai, or kombucha every now and then. Not only do they taste delicious and offer a change from your usual drinks, but they might just give you some added health benefits to boot. Cheers to that!