Is decaffeinated tea healthy?

If you are sensitive to caffeine you might already think and heard about decaffeinated tea. However, the Harvard University nutrition sources website states that “To decaffeinate tea, there are different methods. One process uses an organic chemical solvent (either ethyl acetate or methylene chloride) that also removes most of the tea’s polyphenols. The residual amount of the chemical after processing is minimal to none, and no research has shown negative health effects. Another method called “effervescence” uses water and carbon dioxide, which retains the majority of polyphenols. Both methods apply the chemical or gas onto moistened tea leaves, which bond to the caffeine; when the leaves are dried, the caffeine evaporates along with the solvent/gas. If you wish to know which processing method is used, check the package label or contact the manufacturer.”


What are polyphenols?
Polyphenols are naturally occurring compounds found in plants (as well as in tea). Polyphenols have been studied a lot which brings the conclusion that polyphenol-rich foods may help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, and diabetes and is a powerful antioxidants.

Polyphenols function in tea:
Antioxidant properties can help protect the body against oxidative stress caused by free radicals.

Anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation has been linked to the development of many chronic diseases, so reducing inflammation is very important for overall health.

Potential disease prevention: Studies have suggested that polyphenols may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, and diabetes.
Improve gut health: Polyphenols can also act as prebiotics, which means they can help promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

Even decaffeinated tea is still considered a healthy drink, despite reduced levels of polyphenols. For le Thé Chic tea and plants coming directly from nature are the most healthy because they carry a high level of polyphenols compared to decaffeinated tea which went through unnatural processing.

By the way, you can reduce caffeine levels in tea by infusing it 2nd time. Most caffeine will be released in water with the first infusion. As well you can choose organic black tea, over green one. It also contains much less caffeine because it’s 100% oxidized during preparation. Otherwise, choose organic tisanes. They are naturally free from caffeine.