Khaberni - Cold brewed tea, or what is known as "cold brew," has become a trendy beverage in the past few years, similar to cold coffee, amid claims that it is healthier and richer in antioxidants than hot tea. However, available scientific evidence so far suggests that the health differences between the two methods are not as significant as some might think, according to a report published by Verywell Health.
Cold tea is prepared by steeping tea leaves in cold water for several hours or overnight, while traditional tea relies on hot water. Limited studies suggest that preparing tea with cold water may increase the antioxidant content in some types, such as white tea, while other research has shown that hot water is more efficient in extracting beneficial compounds from green tea, meaning that some elements are only released with heat.
According to experts, the most notable difference between cold and hot tea may be the taste, as cold tea tends to be less bitter and milder, which makes it a preferred choice for some, especially in hot weather.
Whether tea is prepared with hot or cold water, it remains a good source of beneficial plant compounds known as "polyphenols," which are linked with several health benefits.
The first of these benefits is supporting heart health, where studies indicate that regular tea consumption is associated with a slight decrease in the risk of heart diseases, such as heart attacks, with the potential to lower blood pressure and harmful cholesterol when consuming two to three cups daily of green or black tea.
The second benefit is reducing the risk of stroke, as research shows that people who regularly drink tea may have a reduced risk of stroke by about 20 to 25%, which is attributed to the role of flavonoid compounds in improving vascular health and lowering blood pressure.
Thirdly, supporting brain health, as consumption of green and black tea has been linked with a decreased risk of cognitive decline, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease. It is believed that antioxidants help reduce inflammation and prevent the accumulation of harmful proteins in the brain.
Tea is a natural source of antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect cells from damage caused by oxidative stress. Nutrition experts indicate that regular and moderate tea consumption, at a rate of two to four cups daily, may achieve the optimal balance between health benefits and avoiding excessive caffeine.
So far, there are no conclusive evidence proving the health superiority of cold tea over hot tea. Specialists affirm that the choice of the most suitable method primarily comes down to personal taste, as both provide comparable health benefits when consumed without sugar and in moderation.
