If green tea is already a staple in your daily consumption, you might be boosting your well-being without even realizing it.*
New scientific findings suggest that consuming tea, particularly the green variety, correlates with a reduced likelihood of developing cardiovascular illnesses, obesity, diabetes, and certain forms of cancer. Furthermore, it may offer protection for the brain, slow down muscle mass decline in older adults, and mitigate inflammation.
The outcomes of this research were detailed in the journal Beverage Plant Research, presented by scientists from the Tea Research Institute at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, under the direction of Mingchuan Yang and Li Zhou.
However, the investigators issued a caution: certain contemporary tea products, such as bottled teas and bubble tea (tapioca ball tea), might contain added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives, which could diminish the inherent advantages of the tea itself.
Tea originates from the Camellia sinensis plant and has been utilized for centuries, initially in medicinal capacities before transitioning to a common daily beverage. (Herbal teas, conversely, are derived from plants such as mint and chamomile.)
Tea is abundant in plant-based compounds known as polyphenols, with catechins being especially prominent; these are thought to be key to the tea’s health-promoting attributes.
The review incorporated both in-vitro laboratory studies and trials conducted on human subjects. While green tea has been the subject of the most rigorous examination, the authors noted that significantly less data exists for black, oolong, and white teas.
Green tea stands out regarding its positive effects on cardiac health.
Studies have indicated that tea intake can contribute to lowering blood pressure and improving cholesterol profiles. Furthermore, large-scale population studies have demonstrated that individuals who regularly drink tea exhibit lower incidences of cardiovascular disease and a decreased risk of premature mortality from any cause.
Tea may also assist in weight management and the handling of diabetes. One aspect of the research indicated that catechins found in green tea could contribute to weight loss and improved metabolic function in obese individuals.
This comforting beverage also shows potential for supporting healthy aging processes.
According to the review, older individuals with regular tea consumption displayed a slower rate of cognitive function decline and lower levels of biomarkers associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The compounds present in tea might also play a role in reducing age-related muscle mass loss, potentially enhancing strength and mobility in seniors.
Although traditionally brewed tea appears beneficial, the researchers cautioned against the consumption of processed tea-based drinks.
The study highlights that bottled tea and bubble tea frequently have added sugars and preservatives that can negate the tea’s natural positive effects. The review also voiced concerns regarding the potential presence of trace amounts of pesticides, heavy metals, and microplastics in tea products.
For the majority of consumers, these contaminants are unlikely to pose a significant health threat. Nevertheless, they could present a concern for those who drink substantial quantities of tea over many years.
The research suggests that tea consumption might also reduce the body’s absorption of iron and calcium, which merits consideration for individuals on vegetarian diets or those with specific nutritional requirements.
The investigators advise limiting the intake of processed tea beverages and opting for traditional tea varieties whenever possible, asserting that moderate tea consumption can aid in protection against heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
The researchers added that further investigation is necessary to gain a clearer understanding of the long-term consequences, the distinctions between various tea types, and the overall impact of potential contaminants.
About the Author
