Heart disease is a major cause of preventable disease and death in all regions of the world. In America over 40% of all deaths are caused by heart disease which affects over 64 million men and women, almost one quarter of the US population (1). In light of such a high incidence of heart disease taking simple dietary steps to reduce risk of cardiovascular disease could have a significant impact on public health. As part of a healthy lifestyle regular tea drinking may help maintain a healthy heart.

Current Research

A number of population studies conducted around the world including studies in United States and Europe have consistently found that drinking black tea is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. Three separate analyses of research showed that drinking three cups of tea daily reduced the risk for cardiovascular disease death or heart attack by about 10-12% (3, 4, 80).

One of these analyses reviewed 17 population studies and assessed the effect of tea drinking on stroke, heart attack, and all types of coronary heart disease. Results showed that the rate of heart attack decreased by 11% among those who drank three cups of tea per day (3). A second analysis included seven studies and evaluated consumption of dietary flavonoids and risk of death from heart disease. Reported in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, investigators found a 20% reduction in risk of death from coronary heart disease among study participants who consumed the most dietary flavonoids (tea was the primary source of flavonoids) when compared to study participants who consumed the least dietary flavonoids(4). A third review of 10 studies showed that drinking around 3 cups of tea each day reduced the incidence of heart attack by 11% and reduced the rate of death from heart disease by 11% (80). Together, these studies show drinking tea regularly may help maintain a healthy heart as a part of a healthy lifestyle.

How can tea do that?

Since heart disease is a complex disease with multiple risk factors there are several possible roles tea may play that might explain the reduced risk of disease observed in people consuming black tea. Clinical studies have shown that tea flavonoids may promote good heart health by improving endothelial function (44, 45, 46) and by reducing blood cholesterol levels (64, 66, 68, 79).

*While tea is a naturally rich source of antioxidants, it is not a substitute for fruits or vegetables which provide a wide range of antioxidants and essential vitamins and minerals. Please consult your doctor regarding a diet/nutritional plan that is right for you.