Is Drinking Tea Good for You?

Let’s talk about your health over a cup of tea.

After all, the simple and soothing drink has long supplied an answer for our various ailments. Study after study shows the benefits of drinking tea. There’s even evidence that drinking tea may help you live longer.

So, what exactly makes tea so good for you? Let’s brew up an answer with registered dietitian Beth Czerwony, RD, LD.

What makes tea healthy?

True teas — including green and black tea — come from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. Herbal teas, meanwhile, are made by steeping herbs, flowers, roots or spices in hot water.

But whichever type you enjoy, your cup likely contains plant compounds that can benefit your health.

That’s because many teas are rich in antioxidants, including compounds called polyphenols and catechins. These natural do-gooders help protect your cells from damage caused by unstable molecules called free radicals.

“A cup of tea does more than just warm your hands,” says Czerwony. “The natural compounds in it can help support your long-term health. It’s like every sip is an investment in your well-being.”

Health benefits of tea

Let’s be clear: No single tea can prevent disease, cure illness or serve as a substitute for an overall healthy lifestyle. “A cup of tea is good for you, but it’s not a magic potion,” emphasizes Czerwony.

But research suggests that regularly drinking tea may support your health in several ways, including:

• Improved heart health: Virtually all teas contain antioxidants that have been linked to healthier blood vessels, lower blood pressure and improved cholesterol levels.
• Better brain function: Regular tea consumption has been connected to better cognitive function, especially as you age. Over time, tea’s antioxidants may also help protect brain cells from oxidative stress.
• Disease prevention: Research has linked green tea in particular to a lower risk of cancer and several chronic diseases, primarily thanks to antioxidants. More research is needed to fully understand the connections.
• Metabolism boost: Some studies suggest green tea may support metabolism and healthy weight management as part of an overall healthy diet and lifestyle.
• Reduced inflammation: Natural plant compounds in tea may help calm inflammation throughout your body, which can lower your risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions.

Choosing the right kind of tea

Different teas offer different benefits. “The best choice for you really depends on what you’re hoping to get out of it,” says Czerwony.

To get the most out of every cup, here are her suggestions for common concerns.

• Overall wellness: Green tea is Czerwony’s top pick thanks to its versatility. “Green tea is the champ when it comes to offering health benefits,” she says. “It’s the Swiss Army Knife® of teas.”
• Heart health: Your heart will love hibiscus tea! The reason? Studies show that it can help lower your blood pressure and LDL “bad” cholesterol due to high levels of antioxidants.
• Digestive health: Ginger tea may relieve nausea and indigestion by helping food move through your digestive tract more efficiently. Peppermint tea may also help digestive issues lower in your gut, though it can worsen acid reflux for some people.
• Lung health: Herbal teas made with ginger, turmeric or cinnamon contain anti-inflammatory compounds that may help soothe irritated airways. Drinking warm tea can also help loosen mucus when you’re congested.
• Cold symptoms: Peppermint tea’s menthol may help ease sore throats and stuffy noses. Herbal teas made with echinacea, hibiscus or elderberry are other popular choices when you’re under the weather.
• Better sleep: Chamomile tea contains an antioxidant called apigenin that may promote relaxation and sleep. Valerian root and lavender teas are other caffeine-free options to consider before bedtime.

What to watch out for

Tea is generally a healthy beverage, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

• Pay attention to caffeine. Black tea typically contains more caffeine than green tea, which may matter if you’re sensitive to the energy-boosting stimulant or trying to cut back on it.
• Know your digestive triggers. While certain teas may help soothe digestive issues, they also may aggravate acid reflux. Be mindful of how your body responds to certain varieties.
• Consider your medications. Some teas may interact poorly with certain medications, like blood thinners, blood pressure medications or antidepressants. Talk to your healthcare provider about potential issues.
• Be cautious if pregnant. Some teas — especially herbal ones like licorice root or detox blends — are best avoided during pregnancy. Check with your healthcare provider for guidance.
• Don’t expect too much from tea. Tea can be part of a healthy lifestyle, but it can’t be the only part. It’s not a substitute for eating a balanced diet, staying physically active and following your healthcare provider’s recommendations.

Final thoughts

So, with so many teas out there, which should you choose to try to boost your health? Sorry…but there’s no single answer to that question. Just find a tea that suits your taste and sit back and enjoy it.

“You’ve got options,” says Czerwony. “Experiment and try different varieties to see what works best for you.”