New scientific evidence of its health benefits while consumption is higher than ever in Canada
TORONTO, Nov. 26, 2013 /CNW/ - Canadians are embracing the tea culture as the second most consumed beverage in the world, next to water, keeps growing in popularity. Over the past few years, grocery stores, restaurants and tea shops have been offering a broader selection of teas and tea lovers are expanding their tea-tasting palates by choosing increasing varieties of teas for their cupboards.
Tea for slimmer waistlines, healthier hearts and brains
Canadians have more reasons than ever to enjoy tea as scientific evidence is mounting regarding the consumption of tea and its health benefits. The latest research on the relationship between tea and human health was just released by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-research-shows-tea-may-help-promote-weight-loss-improve-heart-health-and-slow-progression-of-prostate-cancer-230874461.html
"Tea has been found to help promote weight loss, contribute to cardiovascular health and improve attention and feelings of alertness and arousal," says Dr. Carol Greenwood, who is a Professor in the Department of Nutritional Sciences at the University of Toronto, Senior Scientist at the Rotman Research Institute at Baycrest and expert in the relationship between diet and brain health. "This is particularly exciting for brain health as we know that what is good for the heart is good for the brain! Controlling our body weight and maintaining heart health are key aspects of supporting brain function," added Dr. Greenwood.
Canadian tea consumption is growing rapidly
A recent Nielsen survey conducted on behalf of the Tea Association of Canada shows that consumption is on the rise with the average Canadian tea drinker consuming 8.3 cups of tea per week with tea consumption expected to go up 40% over the next seven years.
While there are more than 1500 varieties of tea available worldwide, all teas can be divided into four basic types: black, green, white and oolong, all grown mainly in India, China and Kenya.
The Nielsen survey shows tea lovers have a growing desire to sample more types as the average tea cupboard is boasting 5.8 brands of the aromatic beverage. "What's interesting is that while almost all tea drinkers use the tea bag to make quality tea for its convenience and affordability, some are drinking it differently, as there is an increasing number of tea drinkers using loose leaf and single use pods as a means for making tea," says Louise Roberge, President, The Tea Association of Canada.
Tis' the Season for tea giving
"With the holiday season approaching, tea makes a thoughtful and affordable gift. Typically, edible holiday gifts tend to be indulgent but tea is both delicious and healthy for you. Now more than ever, for its taste and for its health benefits, Canadians have a reason to discover all that this ancient beverage has to offer," adds Ms. Roberge.
Methodology:
Nielsen conducted a custom online survey of Canadian Tea Drinkers, French and English, ages 13 and older, June 12 through July 3, 2013. 4,205 Canadian tea drinkers completed the survey. Tea drinker segments explored include Heavy Drinkers who consume 8 or more cups of tea per week (n=1491), Medium Drinkers who consume 3-7 cups per week (n=1731) and Light Drinkers who consume 1-2 cups per week (n=983).
The Tea Association of Canada
The Tea Association of Canada is a not-for-profit association of leading companies and producing countries, including China, India and Kenya, which is dedicated to increasing awareness of quality tea and its health benefits to Canadians. The Tea Association acts as an impartial source for information about tea. Tea is the world's second most popular beverage after water. Brewed tea offers people several health benefits.
Tea, both iced and hot, contains health beneficial flavonoids, has no calories, and is an all-natural beverage with no additives, artificial flavours or colours.
Dr. Carol Greenwood
Dr. Greenwood is a Professor in the Department of Nutritional Sciences at the University of Toronto and a Senior Scientist at the Rotman Research Institute at Baycrest. As an expert on the relationship between diet, nutrition and brain health, she frequently lectures and serves on Advisory Boards both nationally and internationally.
SOURCE: Tea Association of Canada
Contact Information:
Louise Roberge, President of the Tea Association of Canada
[email protected] 416-510-8647
Further information Tea Association of Canada www.tea.ca
133 Richmond Street West, Suite 207, Toronto, Ontario M5H 2L3 • Tel: (416) 510-8647
Email: [email protected] • Website: www.tea.ca
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