In humans, epidemiological and intervention studies have examined anti-inflammatory effects of tea consumption. Serum levels of C-reactive protein and other markers of inflammation relate strongly to cardiovascular risk, and several epidemiological studies examined the effects of tea consumption on such markers. For example, tea consumption was inversely related to C-reactive protein levels in a cohort of 1031 health men [ 104]. Other studies failed to show such a relationship [ 58, 105, 106]. More generally, flavonoid consumption and fruit and vegetable consumption are associated with lower levels of C-reactive protein [ 107, 108], making it harder to confirm a specific relationship with tea consumption. The reviewed epidemiological studies and meta-analyses suggest that tea has protective effects against cardiovascular disease. In regard to the mechanisms that might account for such effects, there is evidence that tea might lower blood pressure and have favorable effects on blood lipids, glucose, and body weight. In addition, experimental studies and human intervention studies suggest that tea may have anti-inflammatory, anti-thrombotic, and anti-proliferative effects, and may improve the function of the vascular endothelium. Although tea polyphenols can scavenge reactive oxygen species and protect LDL against oxidation in vitro, human studies argue against an important in vivo anti-oxidant effect of tea. While the effects are modest compared to the effects of pharmacological interventions, in the opinion of the authors, the overall evidence suggests that tea consumption reduces cardiovascular risk by plausible mechanisms. The case for tea is strengthened by a similar body of work for protective effects of other polyphenol-containing foods and beverages such as grapes and red wine, cocoa, berries, and other fruits and vegetables [ 21, 53, 138– 140]. The question is whether these findings translate to specific dietary recommendations for the general population and for patients with cardiovascular disease. A moderate intake of caffeine shouldn’t be a problem to your heart health, but some people, especially children, are more sensitive than others to its effects. Energy drinks are also not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women and children. In March 2018, UK supermarkets decided to stop selling them to children under 16.

Drinking chamomile tea may also be beneficial for women experiencing premenstrual syndrome, according to another review. The researchers also noted the tea’s anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety properties. Chamomile is in the daisy family and is widely used all over the world,” explains Retelny. “It’s one of the oldest documented medicinal plants with a variety of healing properties.” While drinking any tea likely comes with benefits, many teas have their own distinct health perks. So pour yourself a cup and read on to discover the eight best teas for your health. 1. Green Tea May Reduce the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes and Promote Heart Health Hibiscus may have protective effects against obesity, too. A small, randomized, placebo-controlled trial found that participants who took hibiscus extract saw reductions in body weight, BMI, and central fat mass, regardless of the physical activity. Zheng, X.-X., et al. (2011). Green tea intake lowers fasting serum total and LDL cholesterol in adults: A meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials.These changes can contribute to the development of many diseases and conditions, such as atherosclerosis and some cancers.

Some studies have found that even just 200 mg of caffeine consumed 6 or more hours before bedtime could negatively affect sleep quality, whereas other studies have observed no significant effect ( 6). Hawthorn tea – this is an ideal tea for heart health. It strengthens arteries and helps to build blood and it regulates your overall heart function. Okello, E. J., et al. (2011). In vitro protective effects of colon-available extract of Camellia sinensis (tea) against hydrogen peroxide and beta-amyloid (Aβ((1-42))) induced cytotoxicity in differentiated PC12 cells [Abstract]. Anti-inflammatory powers in herbal teas can help loosen airways tightened by conditions such as asthma, says Czerwony. She recommends herbal teas featuring turmeric, cinnamon or ginger as a way to keep the air flowing.Marhuenda J, Perez S, Victoria-Montesinos D, et al. A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo Controlled Trial to Determine the Effectiveness a Polyphenolic Extract (Hibiscus Sabdariffa and Lippia Citriodora) in the Reduction of Body Fat Mass in Healthy Subjects. Foods. January 2020. Research suggests that tea tannins are more likely to hinder the absorption of iron from plant sources than from animal-based foods. Thus, if you follow a strict vegan or vegetarian diet, you may want to pay extra close attention to how much tea you consume ( 2).