Paragraph E explicitly states: "L-theanine crosses the blood-brain barrier and increases the activity of alpha brain waves, which are associated with 'relaxed alertness.'" This matches the statement perfectly. Answer: NOT GIVEN
To master passages like this, consider these standard strategies from IELTS Liz and IDP IELTS :
Typical question types you might encounter: health tea ielts reading answers
Complete the sentences below. Choose from the passage for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 6–10 on your answer sheet.
begun to validate many of these ancient claims. Write your answers in boxes 6–10 on your answer sheet
Beyond physical health, tea also exerts a profound influence on cognitive function and mental clarity. Tea naturally contains caffeine, a well-known central nervous system stimulant that reduces fatigue and improves alertness. However, unlike the jittery energy spike often associated with coffee, tea provides a smoother, more sustained state of focus. This unique effect is attributed to an amino acid called L-theanine, which is uniquely found in the tea plant. L-theanine crosses the blood-brain barrier and increases the activity of alpha brain waves, which are associated with "relaxed alertness." Working in synergy with caffeine, L-theanine helps individuals stay calm yet highly focused, mitigating the anxiety commonly triggered by other caffeinated drinks.
EGCG is an antioxidant found in green and black teas that helps protect cells from damage. and Full Analysis
In recent years, the commercial market has capitalized on these health findings, resulting in an explosion of "health teas," wellness blends, and herbal infusions. It is crucial, however, to distinguish traditional teas from herbal teas, often called tisanes. Herbal teas—such as chamomile, peppermint, and rooibos—do not contain leaves from the Camellia sinensis plant and are technically not tea at all. While they offer their own distinct therapeutic benefits, such as digestion aid or sleep promotion, they lack the specific catechin and L-theanine profile of true teas. Consumers are advised to read labels carefully, as many commercial health blends blend true tea with herbs, while others contain artificial additives and excessive sugars that can diminish the natural health benefits. IELTS Reading Questions Questions 1–5
| Paragraph | Answer | | :--- | :--- | | 1. Paragraph A | | | 2. Paragraph B | | | 3. Paragraph C | | | 4. Paragraph D | | | 5. Paragraph F | | | 6. Paragraph G | |
| Word | Meaning | Example from IELTS Context | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | (adj.) | Having healing properties | Tea was seen as a therapeutic drink that cured minor ailments . | | Restorative (adj.) | Having the ability to restore health or strength | The physician praised the restorative qualities of the infusion . | | Beverage (n.) | A drink | Tea is the most widely consumed beverage after water . | | Catechins (n.) | Antioxidants found in tea | The star compounds are called catechins, which help prevent cell damage . | | Fermented (adj.) | Processed using bacteria or yeast | Green tea offers maximum healing powers because it is not fermented . | | Tisane (n.) | An herbal infusion, not made from tea leaves | Drinks not made from Camellia sinensis are called tisanes . | | Antioxidants (n.) | Substances that prevent cell damage | The antioxidants in tea might prevent cancer . | | Hospitality (n.) | Friendly and generous treatment of guests | Tea is an important part of rituals of hospitality . |
Mastering the "Health Tea" IELTS Reading Passage: Answer Key, Strategies, and Full Analysis