New Year, New Goals! Many ring in the start of the new year with New Year Resolutions. Some people want to get better sleep, take on a new hobby, succeed in work or focus more. Others want to work on their fitness and start healthy habits.
Did you know teas can actually help you on your fitness journey? Unlike the typical sports drinks that can be filled with chemicals, unwanted sugars, or lack in taste, tea provides an excellent alternative. In this blog, we’ll explain the fitness benefits of tea and why you should choose tea before workouts and after workouts.
Health and Fitness Benefits of Tea
Fitness teas offer a variety of workout benefits. They are great for digestion and weight loss on their own, but can also be great substitutes as post and pre workout teas.
Teas & Digestion
According to Healthline.com, “Herbal teas can provide a variety of digestive benefits, including relief from constipation, ulcers, and indigestion”. Black teas may also help digestion with protecting your stomach with compounds that act as antioxidants. Digestion and weight loss are closely linked as the process of eating and digesting foods takes and burns calories - which in turn, impacts fat loss.
Teas & Weight Loss
In addition to assisting in digestion, teas also can help in weight loss. According to WebMD, “Teas have a type of flavonoid called catechins that may boost metabolism and help your body break down fats more quickly”. Combined with caffeine that can increase your use of energy, the two help you to burn more calories which results in increased weight loss.
Should You Drink Pre Workout and Post Workout Teas?
We’ve all heard of pre-workout or even protein powder for an after-workout drink, but what about tea? We’ve already discussed that drinking certain types of teas can help you lose weight and improve your digestive system. However, there are other benefits that pertain to the beginning and end of the workout.
Fitness teas are a great alternative as its natural properties can keep you focused longer, recover faster, and give you an energy boost.
Tea & Improving Focus & Energy
Wondering why you should drink tea before a workout? The answer is increased focus and energy. Both Caffeine and L-Theanine, 2 natural properties in tea, work to improve your focus. L-Theanine helps to stimulate your brain while also relieving you of the caffeine crash. It can also increase your serotonin and dopamine levels to keep you happy and full of energy to get through your workout regardless of your exercise (TeaVendor.com)!
Post Workout Teas & Improving Recovery
Some post workout teas offer natural ingredients that aid in muscle recovery and hydration. Some tea properties aid in post-workout joint pain, relieve post workout pain, and boost your immunity where you may be compromised with all natural teas.
The Best Tea Before Workouts & Best Tea After Workouts
Best Pre Workout Teas
We recommend Black & Green Teas as your go-to pre-workout drink. These blends are filled with antioxidants, help to support your immune system and reduce muscle damage. Additionally, some blends include caffeine which can help aid in increased energy and focus.
Our Recommendations:
- Sencha Organic Green Tea
- Matcha Organic Ceremonial Green Tea
- English Breakfast Organic, Fair Trade Black Tea
Best Post Workout Teas
Rooibos is a popular post-workout tea as it is caffeine free, full of antioxidants that strengthen the body’s natural immune system, and hydrates your body and skin. It quenches your thirst and helps keep your skin smoother. Additionally, Rooibos tea aids in joint pain and improves muscle recovery.
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Red Rooibos Organic, Fair Trade
- Citron Jasmine Organic Fair Trade Green and Rooibos Tea
- Zesty Ginger Lime Organic, Fair Trade Rooibos:
- Some studies show that Ginger can aid in muscle aches
