Want to live longer and healthier? Have a cup of tea!

Drinking tea at least three times a week is linked with a longer and healthier life, according to a study published in January 2020 in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, a journal of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC).

“Habitual tea consumption is associated with lower risks of cardiovascular disease and death,” said author Dr. Xinyan Wang, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China. “The favorable health effects are the most robust for green tea and for long-term habitual tea drinkers.” Other studies claim that the polyphenol content of green tea has antioxidant properties that can help prevent cancer; however, research is ongoing.

Past studies have demonstrated that tea intake benefits human health, and the positive effects include cardiovascular disease prevention and mood improvement. A longitudinal study published in 2017 showed that daily tea consumption could also reduce the risk of cognitive decline in older persons by 50%.

In a small study, hot tea drinkers were 74% less likely to have glaucoma. Still, no such associations were found for coffee — caffeinated or decaffeinated — decaffeinated tea, iced tea or soft drinks.

Most of these studies have a very small number of participants, but the number of studies showing at least some benefit of drinking tea makes a compelling argument for at least getting out the kettle and whipping up a cup of hot tea today!

If you or a loved one requires long-term care or rehabilitation, call Country Court Skilled Nursing Center at 740-397-4125 to schedule a tour.