Regular Tea Consumption Linked to Reduced Heart Disease Risk, Study Finds
Translated & summarized from i24NEWS by baba
A study of nearly half a million people in China found that regular tea drinkers had an 11% lower risk of vascular diseases. Black tea and medium-strength brews showed the most benefit, while very hot tea increased risk by 16%. Experts note tea's antioxidants are beneficial, but it's most effective as part of an overall healthy lifestyle including exercise and avoiding smoking.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Regular tea drinkers had an 11% lower risk of vascular diseases, according to a study.
- Black tea showed a more consistent link to reduced vascular disease risk than green tea.
- Drinking tea at very hot temperatures increased vascular disease risk by 16%.
- Consuming five to six cups of tea daily was linked to greater health benefits.
- The lowest risk was found in tea drinkers who also exercised and did not smoke.
A large-scale study published in the Journal of Internal Medicine suggests that regular tea consumption may significantly lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The research tracked nearly half a million people in China aged 30 to 79 over approximately nine years, examining their tea-drinking habits, including type, temperature, and strength.
The findings indicated that individuals who drank tea regularly, at least three days a week, had an 11% lower risk of developing vascular diseases. Professor Yitzhak Bitton, Director of the Cardiology Unit at Hadassah Ein Kerem, noted the importance of antioxidants found in tea, stating that drinking five to six cups daily was associated with greater health benefits than lower consumption.
However, the study also highlighted nuances in tea's health benefits. Black tea showed a more consistent association with reduced vascular disease risk compared to green tea, and medium-strength tea was found to be healthier on average. Surprisingly, drinking tea at very hot temperatures was linked to a 16% increase in vascular disease risk compared to non-regular tea drinkers.
Lifestyle factors also play a crucial role. The lowest risk was observed in participants who drank tea regularly, did not smoke, and engaged in physical activity. Clinical Dietitian Shirley Malka emphasized that tea should be integrated into a healthy lifestyle, alongside exercise and other positive changes, rather than viewed as a standalone solution.