English breakfast tea is one of the most popular teas across the globe. This iconic breakfast tea is an integral part of British culture that dates back to the 18th century. English breakfast tea is well known for its full-bodied flavor and invigorating properties that make it a perfect beverage on which to start the day. Packed with healthy compounds and essential minerals, it is not hard to see why English breakfast tea is loved by tea aficionados and newbies alike.
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What is English Breakfast Tea?
English breakfast tea is a caffeinated blend of black teas. It is a full-bodied tea blend that is made from a combination of black teas from Sri Lanka, Kenya, Indonesia, Rwanda and China. When these black teas are combined, the resulting blend is high quality and rich tea that is bright, full-bodied and full of flavor.
English breakfast tea is rich in flavonoids, amino acids. Like other black teas, English breakfast tea contains caffeine which is responsible for the invigorating effects of this tea. During the production of black teas, the leaves are typically fermented.
This fermentation process boosts the concentration of phenols in black tea making English breakfast tea richer in these healthy compounds when compared to other types of tea.
How does English Breakfast Tea Taste?
English breakfast tea has a distinctly rich and robust flavor. The flavor of this tea has some subtle floral notes that give it an invigorating fragrance when brewed. This tea is commonly blended with milk to yield an aromatic brew with a smooth finish.
Does English Breakfast Tea Contain Caffeine?
English breakfast tea is a blend of black teas that typically contain caffeine and it will contain 40 – 70 mg of caffeine per cup. This is half the amount of caffeine you would get from a cup of coffee.
7 Health Benefits of English Breakfast Tea
1. Improve Mental Focus and Alertness
As far as breakfast teas go, English breakfast tea is one of the best. This refreshing tea contains a substantial amount of potassium which helps in boosting energy in the body and also makes it a hydrating beverage.
English breakfast tea contains a significant quantity of caffeine and this natural stimulant makes this tea invigorating and effective in boosting alertness and mental focus. It makes a great breakfast beverage because it gives you the energy kick you need in the morning.
Due to its stimulating effects, English breakfast tea can also work as a pick me up drink when you are feeling under the weather. However, avoid drinking it at bedtime as the caffeine might keep you awake.
English tea is also good for your brain’s health. It is rich in antioxidants that effectively eliminate free radicals from the brain, thereby preventing oxidative stress in the brain. Now, what can be better in the morning than a beverage that boosts your brainpower and gives you the energy to tackle the day?
2. Boost the Immune System
English breakfast tea is rich in essential minerals and antioxidants that help boost the body’s ability to fend off infections. A strong immune system means that your body is more efficient in warding off infections and recovering from illness. A robust immune system is essential for good health and English breakfast tea is one of the healthy teas that have immune-boosting properties.
A cup of English breakfast tea contains essential minerals and vitamins such as potassium and folate which boosts your body’s health profile and reduce your susceptibility to infections and illnesses.
Black teas are also rich in polyphenols which promote the growth of good bacteria in the gut. Good bacteria in the gut promote good digestive health since they inhibit the growth of disease-causing pathogens.
3. Good for Your Skin
When free radicals and toxins accumulate in the body. they cause skin damage and result in premature aging of the skin. English breakfast tea is rich in polyphenols which effectively eliminate free radicals, cleansing your skin from the inside and leaving it healthy and radiant.
The antioxidants in this type of tea have been found to minimize signs of aging. Have a cup of English breakfast regularly to boost the health and appearance of your skin.
4. Boost Cardiovascular Health
English breakfast tea is rich in polyphenols that have been found to reduce cholesterol levels in the blood thereby protecting your heart and blood vessels from potential damage. Elevated levels of LDL cholesterol can cause heart disease by damaging blood vessels.
The action of English breakfast in regulating LDL cholesterol levels is therefore essential for good cardiovascular health. Drink a cup of English breakfast tea regularly to keep cholesterol levels low.
5. Anti-inflammatory Properties
Chronic inflammation can lead to disorders such as Rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions. When the body’s immune system starts to fight its own cells, the result is inflammation which causes tissue and cell damage.
English breakfast tea is rich in antioxidants which help in preventing cell damage by reducing inflammation and eliminating free radicals from the body. The natural compounds in black tea such as catechins, theaflavins, and thearubigins, are responsible for the antioxidant properties of this tea.
6. Anti-cancer Properties
Initial research studies carried out on black tea have indicated that there may be a link between the consumption of black tea and a reduced risk of cancers such as skin and lung cancer. Early studies have shown that TF-2, a chemical in black tea has been found to be effective in inhibiting the growth of cancerous cells.
7. Anxiety and Stress Relief
English breakfast tea contains the amino acid theanine which has relaxing and soothing properties. This makes English breakfast tea a soothing and relaxing tea that can help in relieving anxiety and calming the body. In fact, studies have found that the combination of caffeine and the amino acid theanine working together enhances the stimulatory effects of caffeine helping to improve mental clarity and ability to focus.
4 Best Brands of English Breakfast Tea
From loose-leaf varieties to flavored sachets of English breakfast tea, there is an impressive array of English breakfast teas to choose from in the market today. However, some brands deliver better quality than others so it is always advisable to be on the lookout for quality brands to ensure you get the best English breakfast tea experience. Here are some of the best brands of English breakfast tea available in the market today.
1. Taylors of Harrogate Yorkshire Gold
Yorkshire Gold brand of English tea is a rich blend of high quality black teas from Assam, Rwanda, and Kenya. When it comes to quality this is one of the best teas available in the market. Taylors of Harrogate Yorkshire Gold English tea will give you a rich golden brew with a distinct aroma that lingers long after you have finished brewing your cup of tea.
2. Twinings of London English Breakfast Tea.
When it comes to quality teas, Twinning is a brand that needs no introduction. It is a renowned household brand renown for creating exquisite blends of tea. Twinings of London English Breakfast Tea is a blend of Assam and Kenyan black tea to create an organic and refreshing English breakfast tea.
3. Teapigs’ Morning Glory
If you are looking for a robust English breakfast tea, this is the brand for you. Teapigs’ morning glory English tea is a blend of black teas from Assam and Sri Lanka. It is a sweet and malty brew with nutty undertones and a distinctly bold flavor. This brand is best enjoyed with a splash of milk to balance out the tannic tones.
4. Bigelow English Breakfast Black Tea
This brand of English breakfast tea is a bold and aromatic blend that is combined with orange peel and other spices to give the tea a warm flavor with a spicy twist. If you want a brand of English breakfast tea that you can enjoy without milk or sweetener, this is the perfect brand for you.
How to Brew English Breakfast Tea
Different brands of English breakfast tea will have their instructions on how best to brew the particular brand of English breakfast tea. However, the following are general steps you can use to brew a refreshing cup of English breakfast tea at home.
Materials:
English breakfast leaf tea or tea bags, water, milk, sugar (optional)
Steps:
- Step 1: Heat two cups of water.
- Step 2: Once the water has boiled, remove from the heat. For best results water should be hot but not boiling. (approx. 210 degrees F)
- Step 3: Use 8 ounces of water per tea bag or teaspoonful of English breakfast loose leaf tea.
- Step 4: Allow the tea to steep for at least five minutes while covered.
- Step 5: Strain into a cup, add milk and sugar to taste.
Side Effects of English Breakfast Tea
It is important to note that English breakfast tea, like other black teas, contains caffeine so it is not recommended for people who are caffeine-sensitive. Pregnant women should also ensure they do not exceed the recommended caffeine intake. However, in most cases, when consumed moderately English breakfast tea is considered safe for most people.
People with anemia should also avoid consuming English breakfast tea since it is rich in tannins which may interfere with iron absorption in the body. Tannins may bind with iron and inhibit the absorption of iron into the body posing a problem for anemics.
Conclusion
The rich flavor and lingering aroma of English Breakfast tea are the standout characteristics of a healthy and refreshing brew that has become a staple in most breakfast tables globally. With just enough caffeine to put the energy boost in your day, this beverage is a great way to start the day.
Though it is usually consumed with milk, there are also brands of English breakfast tea that have a mild flavor and can be consumed without milk or sweeteners. Regardless of what your preference is, English breakfast tea packs a healthy punch and hits all the right notes in terms of taste.
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