Digestive issues are common across the UK with as many as 40% of the population suffering from at least one symptom of a stomach problem. These issues such as bloating, cramps and acid reflux can trouble our guts and cause pain.
But research suggests drinking certain types of tea might help to alleviate these problems whilst providing health benefits.
Here are five issues that drinking tea can help with:
1. Reducing period cramps
Drinking certain types of tea can help reduce period cramps. Studies found that participants drinking ginger tea said it reduced their pain during the menstrual cycle thanks to its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Chamomile tea is also a great way to soothe cramps through its natural anti-spasmodic properties. There is even research to suggest this gentle floral tea can reduce heavy menstrual bleeding.
2. Reducing IBS
Research by the University of Adelaide found that drinking peppermint tea can help with reducing irritable bowel syndrome. Peppermint is helpful in relieving stomach cramps and bloating, as it helps the muscle of the bowel wall relax and release gas.
Fennel and anise teas can also be used to relieve symptoms as they contain natural relaxants that can target the intestines and lessen abdominal pain.
3. Soothing ulcers
If you’re looking to soothe the pain caused by stomach ulcers, there are a variety of teas that will provide some relief. Chamomile tea is best for easing the pain and can reduce swelling due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
The acid found in liquorice root, is said to promote the healing of the mucosal lining of the stomach and aid ulcers.
4. Preventing acid reflux
If you suffer from acid reflux and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, then a cup of chamomile tea is said to help. As mentioned earlier, it can reduce swelling but it can also help reduce stress, which can often be a major cause of acid reflux.
Another tea that might be helpful is a ginger brew. Consumed in small doses, the compounds found in ginger can lessen the likelihood of stomach acid travelling to the oesophagus. The tea can also help reduce the symptoms of nausea that are common with acid reflux.
5. Improving the gut microbiome
A final benefit to drinking tea is that it can help improve the microbiome found in the gut. In 2021, a study published in a National Library of Medicine journal found that drinking green tea can have a positive impact and, due to the interlinked nature of this microbiome, could also have beneficial effects in other areas. Green tea is also rich in polyphenols, which helps the body improve its digestive process.
Drinking tea can have a beneficial effect on your digestive health as an all-natural and affordable alternative to alleviate stomach troubles. So get the kettle on and give tea a chance – your gut will thank you for it.
It is always recommended to check with your GP before beginning any new health routine.
