Studies show tea may prevent some cancers, heart disease

Next to water, tea is the most widely consumed beverage in the world.

Perhaps for good reason. Some research has shown tea may prevent certain forms of cancer and heart disease, because tea contains phytonutrients which work as antioxidants in the body.

Phytonutrients are neither vitamin nor mineral, but identified as substances that contain properties for fighting disease. Some research even states tea may play a role in relaxation and increased mental performance.

Tea comes in many forms: Green, black, oolong and herbal. The differences in color and flavor depend on the processing of the tea leaf.

Green tea is the least-processed and most widely studied tea around. Some forms of green tea include Zen and Sencha.

Black tea is the most widely consumed tea in the United States.

Many flavored specialty teas start with black tea, including Chai and English Breakfast teas.

Oolong is an "in-between" tea - between green and black.

Herbal teas, such as apple cinnamon, mint or ginger are usually decaffeinated. It's important to point out that some herbal teas are really not tea at all. Rather, they are infused with herbs, flowers, roots and spices, and don't provide the health benefits of green, black or oolong teas.

However, they are still safe to drink.

The research for tea consumption and disease prevention is too new for certainty; however, there is promising evidence.

In the mean time, enjoy a hot cup of tea on a cold winter day or sun tea during hot summer nights.

Some ways to enjoy tea:

1. Instead of sugar, add a slice of lemon or lime, cinnamon sticks or fresh mint leaves for a surprising flavor.

2. Add a splash of citrus juice to your tea. Whether orange or lemon, the zesty flavor will shock your taste buds.

3. For added nutritional benefits, add milk, hot or cold, to your tea.

4. Try bottled teas for a change of pace. Make sure to check the labels for calories; many bottled teas have added sugar and added calories.

Courtnie Shatwell is a clinical dietitian who provides nutritional education and counseling to clients at St. Vincent Healthcare's Center for Health and Healing, at 90 Poly Drive, and Internal Medicine and Diabetes.