Is Iced Tea Good For You When You’re Sick?
It can be tough trying to make it through a cold or the flu without a warm, soothing cup of tea. However, is iced tea just as beneficial to your health as its hot counterpart?
Iced tea certainly has its good points – not only is it thirst-quenching and refreshing, but it contains a variety of healthy benefits. Let’s take a look at exactly how this chilled beverage could help you when you’re under the weather.
Vitamin C
Iced tea is a good source of vitamin C, which is essential for fighting off infection. Vitamin C helps to stimulate the production of white blood cells, which help to fight off pathogens that cause illness.
Antioxidants
Iced tea also contains antioxidants such as polyphenols, which can help to boost the body’s immunity. These antioxidants help to protect cells from oxidative damage, reducing the risk of illness.
Hydration
Staying hydrated is essential when you’re feeling under the weather. Drinking iced tea can help to keep you hydrated and may even reduce the severity of a cold or flu.
Benefits of specific types of iced tea
- Green Tea – may help reduce the risk of developing certain illnesses. It also contains catechins, which are a type of antioxidant.
- Black Tea – may have anti-inflammatory properties and is thought to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
- Herbal Tea – may help to reduce stress, improve digestion and boost immunity.
Overall, iced tea is a great beverage to have when you’re feeling under the weather. Although it may not be as beneficial as hot tea, it can still help to reduce the severity of common colds and the flu. So next time you’re feeling a bit under the weather, why not put the kettle on and make yourself a cup of iced tea!
