Japanese Tea Culture Â
There are numerous health benefits associated with drinking tea, and people in Japan still today prefer to drink tea after meals, which highlights tea culture that has remained unchanged over the years. The tea culture in Japan has indicated the Nara period, and from this era, tea has become a highly popular beverage consumed by most of the people in Japan. Tea in Japan has a long history, and it has a deep culture around it. In modern times, tea rituals continue to be practiced and preserved by Japanese people which indicates their higher preference towards tea, which has become a more casual beverage.Â
Health benefits of tea that are recognized by the people in Japan
Tea comprises antioxidants along with unique properties. Due to this reason, in Japan, a large number of people prefer tea on a regular basis prefer tea, particularly after dinner. The tea variants also provide a holistic approach to well-being and promote various health, which is key for boosting immunity. There are also various scientifically proven health benefits associated with tea consumption that may reduce Inflammation, help improve Blood Sugar and Cholesterol Levels, Promote Heart Health, Improve immune system function, Improve Digestive Health, and many more. In the context of life expectancy, Japanese Island Okinawa is one of the world’s Blue Zones of longevity.
Green tea, deeply associated with the traditional Okinawan lifestyle, not only provides vital antioxidants but is also a healthy beverage for socializing with friends and families. Most Okinawans incorporate tea into a meal that promotes a multitude of health benefits required to live longer. In this article, Information related to the key benefits of tea and how it has a correlation with long life will be provided, which may be the reason most people in Japan consume tea after dinner.
May reduce Inflammation
Inflammation in different parts of the body is identified to be very common and is induced by infection and injury. It is worth noting that short-term Inflammation, in general, does not pose any threat to the well-being of individuals, but prolonged Inflammationhas had a devastating impact on long-term health and well-being that may affect life expectancy as well. In addition, prolonged Inflammation throughout the body leads to degradation of health, which over time increases the likelihood of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancer.
However, this sort of health-related problem could be prevented and regulated by increasing the consumption of black tea and green tea, which offer a wide range of health benefits as it contains antioxidants and compounds that could help in reducing Inflammation in the body. The type of antioxidant that is found in black tea called Polyphenols are the main source of antioxidants that may remove free radicals, which can reduce cell damage in the body. That could be the secret behind higher life expectancy among people in Japan. Â
Improve immune system function
The antioxidants that are mainly found in Japanese tea also contain essential minerals and vitamins that are identified to be enough to boost immunity. Since most Japanese people are inclined towards consuming tea after dinner, it may help them to keep the immune system robust besides helping them to fight against common illnesses. A number of studies indicate that green tea has the ability to improve the immune system, promote cardiovascular health and subside  Inflammation in different parts of the body. The immune-boosting properties of tea are enough to attract the attention of Japanese people. Â
Help in improving Blood Sugar and Cholesterol Levels
One of the most common causes that affect the life expectancy of individuals is turn out to be increased cases of diabetes and high cholesterol. For people who suffer from this kind of disease, choosing food and beverages that improve healthy blood sugar levels and control Cholesterol Levels is vital for living longer. Some teas contain plant components that fight cellular damage besides reducing Inflammation along with regular blood sugar making them a significant choice for people with high  Cholesterol and diabetes.
The catechins, which are found in green tea, may help regulate blood sugar levels by transporting glucose from the bloodstream into the cells. On the other hand, drinking tea on a regular basis can lower bad cholesterol levels in the body, which is key for boosting heart health. This is why many Japanese include it in their regular routine.
Promote Heart Health
Consuming tea, particularly green tea, several times a day could decrease the likelihood of cardiovascular diseases and prevent heart attacks. People who regularly consume green tea can get numerous health benefits since green tea can lower cholesterol levels and also lessen the risk of heart disease. The study, which was published in 2021, illustrates that individuals who consumed about seven cups of green tea on a regular basis experienced a 62 per cent reduction in the risk of mortality from all sorts of cardiovascular diseases, even among those with a history of heart attacks. This may increase the life expectancy. Â Â
Improve Digestive Health
Tea is also known for improving digestive health, and ginger tea is practically among them that can help stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, and allow in the breakdown of food. On the other hand, Chamomile tea is widely regarded and used to mollify heartburn symptoms since it has anti-inflammatory properties that can decrease the likelihood of Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and hence reduce abdominal pain and bloating.Â
FAQ
1. Why do people in Japan drink tea after dinner and how is it helping them live longer?
In Japan, drinking tea after dinner is a common practice that serves several purposes. It is a way to relax and aid digestion after a meal. The calming properties of tea, especially green tea, are appreciated, and it also offers a moment to unwind with family or friends.
2. What sort of tea do Japanese people usually drink?
 Japanese people often enjoy green tea, such as sencha or gyokuro, after meals. Other options include hojicha and genmaicha (green tea with roasted brown rice), which can provide a soothing and aromatic experience.
