As an avid coffee drinker it was tough to give it up. However, due to certain medical conditions it became necessary to change my daily habit in order to see improvement. You’re probably wondering “why would anyone need to give up coffee?” In my case, it had to do with fertility treatment. BUT, not only did I need to give up coffee, I needed to give up caffeine, period. You’re probably thinking there’s no way, I have to have my fix everyday. I know it to be true because that’s how I used to think. But it’s mind over matter and when you weigh your options, the end result is what pushes you to make the right choices. So I had to replace it and I replaced it with none other than TEA. Yes, tea that my taste buds have undoubtedly learned to love. What benefits does tea have? Seriously, the benefits of tea are endless. Below is a list of my top five tea recommendations and their benefits for a healthier, happier YOU.
1.Ginger
Yes, there a many ginger teas combined with numerous decadent flavors such as cardamom, cinnamon, orange, peach, lemon peel and ginseng to name of few… You can find these tea bags at your local grocery store. However, in order to get the most out of this tea, it must be homemade. So simple and effortless to make. All you need is two ingredients; ginger root and water and “TADA” you have your tea. The warm and spicy flavor is to die for. You can find the ginger root in the produce section at most groceries stores.
Health Benefits: reduces inflammation, improves circulation, aids in digestion
Instructions: bring 8 ounces of water to a boil, add a few pieces of peeled ginger root, boil for about 10-15 minutes, let it steep for another 5 minutes, strain the tea into a cup and it’s ready to drink.
2. Cinnamon
Now who doesn’t love the aroma of Cinnamon, especially during the holidays? Its sweet and spicy flavor is just what you need during a cold winter day. However, cinnamon tea has amazing health benefits throughout the year. You have the option to buy tea bags or cinnamon powder. And yes, you still get the benefits, but the most effective way to drink cinnamon tea it is to make it from scratch. What do I mean by this? Simply buy the cinnamon sticks. Similar to ginger tea, you only need two ingredients and it’s very easy to make.
Health benefits: anti-inflammatory agent, regulates menstruation, promotes weight loss, improves digestion.
Instructions: bring 8 ounces of water to a boil, add a couple of cinnamon sticks, boil for 10-15 minutes, let steep for another 5 minutes, strain into a cup and it’s ready to drink. Side note: if the naturally sweet flavor of the cinnamon tea is not enough for you, I recommend adding one packet of raw sugar or honey.
3. Rosemary
I have to admit, when I started drinking rosemary tea, I wasn’t too keen on it. It was definitely an acquired taste, but the natural healing benefits this tea has are incredible so I had to give it a try. Trust me, after a few cups you will start to enjoy it.
Health Benefits: antioxidant properties, anti-inflammatory agent, improves circulation, alleviates muscle pain and cramps
Instructions: bring 8 ounces of water to a boil, add a couple of fresh rosemary herbs, boil for 10-15 minutes, let steep for another 5 minutes, strain into a cup, then ready to drink.
4. Chamomile
Chamomile tea is one of the best teas to help with upset stomach, constipation and menstrual cramps. This tea not only has unbelievable calming effects, but it’s also tasty. Drink this tea especially at night to help you relax and get a good night sleep. You can find this tea at your local grocery store or online.
Health Benefits: antioxidant properties, aids in sleep, helps with digestion, relieves menstrual cramps
Brewing Instructions: bring 8 ounces of water to a boil, pour the water into a cup, add 1-2 tea bags depending on personal taste, let it steep for 5 minutes, remove tea bag(s) and it’s ready to drink. Add sweetener, if desired.
5. Matcha green tea
Now, if drinking caffeine does not affect you, then I highly recommend drinking matcha green tea. It has less caffeine than coffee and you still get your fix. The reason this is a better choice than coffee is that it’s full of antioxidants. Antioxidants have many health benefits. It is said that the level of antioxidants found in matcha green tea is 10 times for than regular green tea. Oh and the flavor is sooo delicious. I prefer to drink this tea as a latte and do so only on special occasions.
Health Benefits: packed with antioxidants, boosts energy, helps burn calories, enhances mood and concentration
Instructions: sift 1 teaspoon of matcha into a cup, add 3 ounces of hot water, whisk until frothy, add more water to taste, ready to drink.
