The Queen’s cup of tea

Saturday, 3 May 2014 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Queen – England’s Elizabeth II, of course – drinks a cup of tea every day sharp at 5 p.m. She makes it herself. This was revealed in a feature in a recent issue of WA Sunday Times on ‘Health secrets of the Royals’. Though it’s not mentioned what type of tea she dinks – green or black – (or the brand), the article quotes an accredited practising dietician describing the merits of tea.

“Tea – particularly green tea – has a high concentration of antioxidants, or polyphenols, which research shows contributes to the prevention of cancer, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease,” Lauren McGuckin says. “Rather than a single cup, aim for five to six. Go decaf if need be, but hold the herbal. You won’t get the same benefits – so stick with green or black.”

The Queen also has the habit of four light meals a day rather than two or three big meals. Fish plays a major part in her meals. It is an approach that does wonders for her health, McGckin says. “Eating smaller meals releases energy from food more steadily and this assists with maintaining metabolism and keeps appetite under control.” As for the selection of fish she recommends those that are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 is known to assist with brain functioning and it shows age progression. While being an active Head of State, the Queen is said to be maintaining a formidable grasp of foreign affairs and a razor-sharp wit. Research suggests that staying mentally active can delay the onset and reduce the impact of dementia and other degenerative brain conditions. “Keep your mind active by learning a new skill, playing games such as bridge or Sudoku and staying socially active,” a psychologist advises. Managing stress The article says that the royalty knows how to manage stress. This skill is known to boost the life expectancy: Saying that stress is one of the most prevalent killers via its contribution to cardiovascular disease and psychological disorders like depression, a psychologist recommends setting meaningful goals, meditating often and fostering optimistic attitude. Mingling with youth is also mentioned as a practice among the royals that keep them healthy. “Members of the royal family are forever kissing babies and patting small children on the head, the writer says. A recent research study from the University of Iowa has revealed that youthful energy can be passed to the elderly via social interactions with the young, thus improving the older generation’s cognitive abilities and vascular health. Why do royals love doggies? Studies have shown that pet ownership can decrease blood pressure and health problems often improve within one month of acquiring a furry friend, the article says. According to Dr. James Serpell, Director of Pennsylvania’s Center for Interaction of Animals and Society while it is known that people with good human support networks tend to have a more robust immune system and less cardiovascular disease, it seems that pets help promote the same feeling of companionship. Walking, rowing and hose riding are listed as the favourite sports of the royals. Walking briskly is considered as a great weight-bearing exercise. “It strengths your glutes, decreases the risk of heart disease and stroke and increases bone density,” a fitness specialist advises. A 30-minute walk three times a week with each session burning between 90 and 200 calories is recommended.