Cream or sugar? For maximum health benefits, ditch the dairy--studies show it reduces tea's efficacy.

Southerners are no strangers to tea--but what may be less familiar is the bounty of health benefits in every sip. There's no question that the beverage is downright good for you. Sweet and unsweet are only the tip of the teabag.

Find Your Cup of Tea
• Black tea-- This common tea, found in most homes and restaurants, often forms the base of iced tea. Black tea can lower cholesterol, help prevent heart attacks, slow the progression of Parkinson's disease, and increase the body's ability to handle stress. Chai tea is black tea flavored with spices. Be aware, though, that the popular powdered versions often contain a lot of sugar and artificial ingredients.
• Green tea-- This pale tea is a health powerhouse. Studies show that it may reduce the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's, hypertension. . . the list goes on and on.
• White tea-- A more delicate tea, white provides large amounts of cancer-fighting antioxidants.
• Oolong tea-- A rare, expensive tea, oolong contains polyphenols, which act as antioxidants that can block bad cholesterol.
• Herbal tea-- This category includes any brew not made from the Camellia sinensis plant, such as rooibos, chamomile, mint, and lemon grass. They are 100% caffeine free and can be used to treat a number of ailments, such as headaches, anxiety, insomnia, and more.

Tea or Teasing?
Not all teas are created equal when it comes to health benefits. A hot, freshly brewed cup of plain tea remains the recommended way to reap its goodness. Iced tea can be just as healthful if consumed shortly after brewing to retain its antioxidant power. Bottled teas have a lower antioxidant level due to their long shelf life.

"Tea Time" is from the January 2008 issue of Southern Living.