King Charles III is celebrating his 76th birthday today and it's believed he'll be starting the festivities with a cup of his favourite health-boosting tea. The monarch is known to enjoy Darjeeling tea with honey and milk, which he is said to drink every day as part of a late breakfast.
The UK Loose Leaf Tea Company describes this beverage as having "a delicate taste" with notes of wildflower honey and muscatel. Tea connoisseurs often suggest that the first flush of Darjeeling should be drunk without milk due to its lighter flavour, while the second flush, being stronger and more tannic, can be softened by adding milk.
Beyond its distinctive flavour, experts have highlighted numerous health benefits associated with black teas like Darjeeling, when included in a balanced diet. Research from the National Library of Medicine indicates that teas from the Camellia sinensis plant, such as Darjeeling, are rich in nutritious plant compounds including Polyphenols and Phytochemicals like flavonoids.
These flavonoids, potent phytonutrient pigments found in tea, are reputed to reduce cholesterol levels, potentially aiding in the management of high blood pressure, heart disease, or stroke. Furthermore, a recent study has shown that black tea extract may help lower blood sugar levels, possibly helping those with diabetes to process insulin more effectively.
Additionally, the polyphenols in Darjeeling are said to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the digestive system, which could assist with weight management.
Tea, rich in dietary polyphenolic compounds known as catechins, has been spotlighted for its potential to enhance fat burning and metabolism. A study over eight weeks with 14 healthy male participants suggested that combining regular exercise with tea catechins could lead to efficient body fat reduction, though further research is needed to fully understand the effects.
Honey, another ingredient high in nutrients and antioxidants, may also aid in diabetes and weight management. Moreover, as a low-calorie beverage, tea stands out as a healthier choice compared to other high-calorie or sugary drinks.
King Charles is known to enjoy his beloved tea as part of a late breakfast, which often includes homemade bread, boiled eggs, linseeds, fresh fruit, and juice. Ex Royal chef Darren McGrady notes that "no two days are the same" regarding the monarch's daily meals.
Julian Payne, Charles' former press secretary, shared with The Mirror that the King typically skips lunch. "An early lesson I learnt when out on the road with him was to have a big breakfast or bring a few snack bars with you to keep you going," he shared.
"The working day is pretty relentless. Beginning with the radio news headlines and a breakfast of seasonal fruit salad and seeds with tea."
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