What Are The Healthiest Teas?

Along with water, tea is one of the most commonly consumed drinks in the world. It not only hydrates just as well as water does, but it also contains antioxidants that are proven to fight cancer, reduce the risk of life-threatening diseases, and even aid in weight loss. In fact, many teas have more antioxidants than fruits and vegetables.

What Are the Healthiest Teas? (Slideshow)

Green, black, white, and oolong teas derive their leaves from the evergreen plant known as Camellia sinensis. Its leaves contain polyphenols, antioxidants that have strong health properties. No matter how cured or fermented a tea is, it still contains some concentration of polyphenols.

While all varieties of teas are healthy for you, some have more health benefits than others. Because it is uncured and unfermented, white tea has stronger anti-cancer properties than most teas. Black tea contains high concentrations of theaflavins and thearubigins, which are linked to lower levels of cholesterol. And oolong tea is particularly good to drink when trying to lose weight. We've rounded up the healthiest teas along with the health benefits of each.

Haley WIllard is The Daily Meal's assistant editor. Follow her on Twitter @haleywillrd.