Expert says one cup of this tea daily could slash diabetes and heart disease risk

It's no secret that Brits harbour a deep love for their tea, turning the task of sipping on the brew into something of a national pastime—with an estimated 100 million cups enjoyed daily. Now, experts are spotlighting not just any cuppa but a specific herbal tea tipped with several health advantages.

Research has vouched for guava leaf tea's potential in staving off type 2 diabetes and even heart disease. Not only does this tropical fruit's leaves make a natural treatment for digestive troubles like diarrhoea, but they're also brimming with essential nutrients such as vitamin C and potassium.

A feature published by Mexican news outlet El Universal stated: "Additionally, the leaves of the guava plant also offer significant health benefits that often go unnoticed compared to the fruit obtained from this tree."

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Studies delving into guava leaf tea's influence on blood sugar control have shown promise. According to findings showcased in the Nutrition and Metabolism journal, sipping on this tea after eating can slash blood sugar levels, with the impact lingering for two hours.

Healthline sheds light on another study highlighted in the same review, which noted that guava leaf tea consumption led to more than a 10 percent decrease in post-meal blood sugar levels in diabetic individuals.

Guava leaf tea could be a game-changer for heart health, according to scientists who highlight the drink's rich antioxidant and vitamin content that may shield the heart from free radical damage. The presence of high potassium levels and soluble fibre in guavas are also believed to bolster heart health.

Research indicates that guava leaf extract is associated with reduced blood pressure, lower "bad" LDL cholesterol, and increased "good" HDL cholesterol, all of which are beneficial in reducing the risk of heart disease. Additionally, the guava fruit itself is recognized for its health advantages, with a 12-week study showing that consuming ripe guava before meals led to a reduction in both blood pressure and total cholesterol.

To whip up a batch of guava leaf tea:

• Boil five to 10 guava leaves in one litre of water

• Allow it to steep for 10 minutes to fully infuse

• Strain the mixture to remove the leaves before serving

• For those who find the taste not to their liking, cinnamon or pieces of guava can be added for flavour.

It's suggested to enjoy one or two cups daily. For convenience, guava leaves and ready-to-use guava leaf tea are available for purchase on Amazon.