New research suggests that drinking it every day may do far more than help you wake up in the morning
It can give your heart a boost(Image: Dmitry Tkachuk via Getty Images)
As people observe International Tea Day this month, new research suggests the nation’s beloved beverage – black tea with or without milk – may be doing far more than simply providing a morning pick-me-up. Evidence indicates that tea could be quietly supporting one of the body’s most vital organs – the heart.
A new real-world survey of 1,000 adults, examined by the Tea Advisory Panel, reveals that more than three-quarters of people in the UK (76%) were worried about their heart health, demonstrating how many people are seeking straightforward ways to safeguard their long-term wellbeing. The encouraging news is that one of the simplest healthy habits may already be in your kitchen cupboard.
Dr Tim Bond, tea expert from the Tea Advisory Panel, explained: “Tea contains natural plant compounds called polyphenols, which have been linked to a range of cardiovascular benefits.
“These tea bioactive compounds appear to help blood vessels function more effectively, support healthy cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation, all of which are important for maintaining a healthy heart.
“A major study involving more than 207,000 adults from the UK Biobank found that people with the highest intakes of polyphenol-rich foods and drinks – including tea – had a 22% lower risk of developing heart disease.
“Meanwhile, another large analysis involving nearly one million adults reported that regular black tea drinking was linked with a lower risk of coronary heart disease. Researchers believe the naturally occurring flavonoids in tea – a group of polyphenol bioactives– are playing a key role.”
There’s further encouraging news for those who enjoy a cuppa. Dr Bond noted: “Studies suggest benefits can begin from as little as two cups daily, with several studies finding that each additional cup may provide further cardiovascular support.
“Conveniently, the average Brit already drinks between four and five cups a day, according to the TAP survey review.”
However, the way you prepare your tea is equally important. “To get the maximum benefit from tea’s polyphenols, you should brew your tea for at least two minutes,” Dr Bond advised.
“A quick dip won’t extract the same levels of beneficial tea bioactive compounds. Proper brewing allows more of these heart-supporting plant nutrients to be released into the cup.”
Specialists also emphasise that freshly brewed tea is the superior option. Ditching sugary fizzy drinks in favour of unsweetened tea could assist in cutting sugar consumption while simultaneously boosting intake of beneficial polyphenols.
Despite the mounting body of evidence, public awareness remains remarkably low. Two-thirds of Brits surveyed in the TAP survey review had no idea that tea polyphenols could offer protection against heart disease and stroke, while only a quarter associated regular tea consumption with a reduced risk of heart attack.
