Tea

People already know tea as a popular beverage that is made by steeping the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant in water. This plant is reported to contain many active biological components that help prevent and treat diseases. For example, a review of the green tea plant can be found in this short and easy-to-read article published in the Global Journal of Pharmacology.

The main components of tea that help us are:

1. Caffeine: This is a stimulant that can help to increase alertness and reduce fatigue from everyday life. It works by blocking the action of adenosine, a component that informs our brain with signs of sleepiness. However, it is important to highlight that tea caffeine is NOT the same as the caffeine present in coffee. The caffeine in tea is accompanied by other compounds, which can have a calming effect on the brain. In addition, caffeine in tea is released more slowly than the caffeine in coffee, leading to a more sustained effect on energy levels and cognition. Andrew Huberman, an American neuroscientist and professor of neurobiology and behavioural sciences at Stanford University School of Medicine, explains more about caffeine without the jitteriness in his podcast episode.

2. L-Theanine: An amino acid (an organic compound that helps the human body produce proteins to digest food, grow and repair body issues) that is found almost exclusively in tea. It has been shown to promote relaxation and reduce stress without causing drowsiness. A recent review article explains more about stress and anxiety management through Theanine.

3. Polyphenols: These are a group of antioxidants that are found in tea leaves. They have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to protect the body against damage from free radicals, which can contribute to chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. If you are not acquainted with biological terms and would like to know more about these famous free radicals, here is an article that explains them in easy words in the abstract and introduction.

The combination of all these ingredients balance eachother out. L-theanine helps smooth out the body's reaction to caffeine, leading to a steady energy boost and better focus without the usual crash or jitters. Instead of just masking caffeine's effects, it helps you manage them effectively.