Today is International Tea day where we celebrate the tea industry and the thousands for workers across the globe A massive 8.2 billion cups of tea are consumed around the globe every single day and here in the UK we drink over 100 million cups of tea daily. The UK is one of the top five tea-consuming countries in the world On International Tea Day we acknowledge the workers in the tea industry from those harvesting leaves in a far-off country, to those who deliver a high-quality tea that we can enjoy in our own teapot at home. The aim is to raise awareness and highlight that tea production contributes to the fight against hunger, reduction of extreme poverty, empowerment of women, and is a sustainable use of ecosystems. You can find out more at the UK Tea & Infusions Association.

A nation of tea drinkers

The UK is a nation of tea drinkers! Here at the WCD Group we drink tea by the gallon and not just ‘builder’s’ but the whole range of herbal and fruit infusions that are readily on offer in every supermarket. We love tea whether it's to kick-start the working day, take five in our breakout room or as our afternoon cuppa. Before working from home and lockdown how we enjoyed the quintessential office tea round; a social element in the workplace that boosts camaraderie as well as healthy and wellbeing. So, no matter what the weather, and if we are happy or sad, needing support, there is nothing quite like a cup of tea to make you feel better. In fact, it is officially the UK’s top drink; a refreshing and tasty beverage that can be served iced or hot. Just off to make mine using a fab KettleTap(of course) ! But its benefits go far beyond thirst quenching and refreshment. Expert advice shows that drinking tea can actually boost your health and wellbeing. At the very least, it’s a flavoursome way of getting enough fluid into your body each day. Research suggests that teas can help protect your teeth and your heart, as well as possibly even helping to stave off more serious conditions.

Types of tea

Which type of tea you drink can make a bit of difference. All non-herbal teas are made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. The amount of time the leaves are processed determines whether you end up with a green, black or oolong tea. The green teas are the least processed and tend to have the highest amounts of polyphenols, and the only type that contain the polyphenol, catechin, which is why many studies have been done using only green teas. Certain herbal teas are known for their medicinal values, including soothing the digestive system.

Tea is healthy

Here are some top teahealth benefits as a result of drinking the UK’s favourite brew! Tea contains antioxidants, which work to prevent the body’s version of rust and so help to keep us young and protect us from damage from pollution. Tea has less caffeine than coffee! Herbal blends have no caffeine, while traditional teas have less than 50 percent of what typically is found in coffee. This means you can consume it without pesky effects on your nervous system. Tea may reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke. This is a health effect for which there is the strongest evidence. Medical studies showed that a nearly 20% reduction in the risk of heart attack and a 35% reduced risk of stroke was achieved among those who drank one to three cups of greentea a day. Those who drank four or more cups of green tea daily had a 32% reduction in the risk of having a heart attack and also healthier, lower levels of LDL cholesterol. Tea may help protect your bones. Data from recent animal studies has shown that green tea may prevent bone loss. Tea may keep your smile bright. Japanese researchers have found that tea can decrease tooth loss, as compared to other drinks. Apparently, it changes the pH in your mouth when you drink it and this may help prevents cavities. Tea can also help boost the immune system. Studies have shown tea can tune up immune cells so they reach their targets quicker. Herbal teas soothe the digestive system. Herbal teas, in particular chamomile, can be good for people with irritable bowel syndrome because it is antispasmodic. It is well known that peppermint and ginger teas do calm nausea. Tea — unadulterated, that is — is calorie free. It’s a great no-calorie alternative to water. It provides so many options for flavour and versatility. You can have it hot or ice cold. And you don’t have to put anything in it, though you might want to add a cinnamon stick or some ginger. This means you’re able to hydrate with something other than water alone. [caption id="attachment_2522" align="aligncenter" width="1960"]instant-hot-cold-chilled-tap multi function hot and cold tap for water as you want it[/caption]

Time for a KettleTap

Whatever your favourite brew, ditch the old-fashioned kettle and turn to a KettleTap. Instant boiling water and no waiting time to re-boil or constantly re-fill wasting mains water and your time! A hot tap is set at 98 degrees to make a perfect brew!