Could A Daily Cup Of Tea Save Your Life?

They say a cup of tea can fix anything – and now a new study suggests it could even help prevent heart attacks. 

New Study Shows Tea And Coffee Supports Heart Health

The effect of caffeine consumption on heart health has long been debated. But the latest piece of research, published in the journal Rheumatology, presents a positive perspective, concluding that drinking daily tea and coffee can be beneficial – particularly for people with rheumatic conditions. This is the first study to ‘demonstrate a protective role of caffeine’ on the function of blood vessels in people with weakened immune systems. 

Scientists from Sapienza University in Rome looked at 31 patients with lupus, an autoimmune disease which causes the body to attack its own tissues and organs. This leads to inflammation, and can cause permanent tissue damage to many parts of the body, including the skin, joints, lungs, kidneys and brain.

Until now, doctors have traditionally recommended things like giving up alcohol, quitting smoking and reducing cholesterol in a bid to reduce vascular risks. However, researchers now believe patients might be able to improve their condition with something enjoyable: enjoying a cup of tea or coffee. 

Getty Images

That’s because caffeine helps endothelial progenitor cells, a group of cells that play a role in regenerating the lining of blood vessels. Study leader Dr Fulvia Ceccarelli explained: ‘Besides the well-known stimulant effect on the body, caffeine also exerts an anti-inflammatory effect because it binds with the receptors expressed on the surface of immune cells.’

Participants were asked to complete a seven-day food questionnaire, and after a week their blood pressure was measured. Researchers found those who consumed caffeine had better vascular health than those who hadn’t, suggesting drinking tea and coffee can support heart health.

‘The present study is an attempt to provide patients with information on the possible role of diet in controlling the disease,’ Dr Ceccarelli said. ‘It will be necessary to confirm the results through a longitudinal study, aimed at assessing the real impact of coffee consumption on the disease course.’

As with anything, moderation is advised. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says most adults will be fine with anything up to 400 mg of caffeine per day (aside from those who are pregnant or breastfeeding), which is around four or five cups of coffee. However, people with certain health conditions are recommended to avoid caffeine altogether, and it can interfere with some medications, so it’s always best to check with your GP if you’re unsure.