Tea, Coffee, Milk Top Healthy Beverages

CHICAGOTea, coffee and low-fat or chocolate milk are some of the healthiest beverages for nutrition, health and workout recovery, according to a recent article published in Food Technology magazine.

As reported by Newswise, tea is an antioxidant-rich beverage containing more polyphenols than many fruits and vegetables. Besides being rich in compounds that combat cell-damaging oxidative stress, tea has a chemical makeup that includes enzymes, carbohydrates, protein, and lipids. Oxidative stress is a molecular imbalance that interferes with the bodys ability to detoxify harmful compounds leading to cellular damage and is associated with chronic health problems such as atherosclerosis, diabetes, dementia, and even cancer. Research indicates that tea strengthens the bodys immune system, reduces buildup of plaque on arterial walls, and aids in the control and prevention of diabetes.

Coffee also is loaded with polyphenols and has a higher content of antioxidants than green or black tea and other beverages. New research suggests coffee consumption can lower cardiovascular risks and lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by up to 50 percent. Coffee also appears to have a positive effect on neurological diseases with coffee consumption possibly reducing the risk of Parkinsons disease and Alzheimers disease.

Recent research findings detail the benefits of whole, low fat and chocolate milk when it comes to overall nutrition, bone density, weight loss, muscle-building and more. Other research indicates that when consumed after resistance training, both unflavored and chocolate-flavored versions of reduced-fat milk, improve muscle development, enhance strength and increase fat loss.