Scientists from Northwestern University have studied the ability of tea to reduce the content of heavy metals in water. As reported by IZ with reference to ACS Food Science & Technology, it turned out that cellulose bags filter metals more effectively than cotton or nylon ones. Crushed black tea leaves cope with this especially well, which, due to their structure, are able to absorb a significant part of the contaminants. The results of the study confirm that long-term brewing increases the efficiency of purification.
The length of time the tea is steeped also affects its ability to remove metals. The longer the tea is steeped, the more heavy metals it absorbs. The best results were seen when steeped in cold water for a long time. Shorter steeping did not have a significant effect. The researchers recommend using cellulose bags or loose leaf tea, avoiding nylon bags, which can leach microplastics.
The study also found that microplastics from nylon bags can leach into water with tea, posing an additional risk. Therefore, cellulose bags are a better choice for those who want to reduce the amount of heavy metals in their water. Tea not only purifies water, but also remains a healthy drink due to its antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Recall that we previously wrote about how a new protein affects aging.