A cuppa can reduce the harmful effects of stress. New research from University College London shows levels of the stress hormone cortisol fell by 47 per cent in tea drinkers compared with 27 per cent of those given a fake tea-like drink after 75 volunteers completed a stressful task. The tea group reported a "greater degree of relaxation" after the task.

Tea's antioxidant level is comparable to fruit and vegetables (although it shouldn't be used as a substitute). Drinking three cups a day gives roughly the ame antioxidant power as eating six apples.

Tea does count towards your recommended daily fluid intake of 1,5 to two litres. Tea has no diuretic effect unless you drink five cups one after another.

Green tea may protect against lung and stomach cancers in drinkers.

Get 70 per cent of your daily fluoride, needed to protect teeth and bones by drinking four cups of green tea or black tea.

Tea is used traditionally to aid indigestion while strong tea is used medicinally to treat dysentery and gastritis.

Tannin in tea prevents absorption of calcium and iron so you should avoid drinking it with meals.