Is Drinking Tea Every Day Good for You? Benefits Explained

On an icy cold, snowy Sunday morning in February, I took a self-care break.  As I sat sipping my tea in the lovely lounge at Vortex Wellness Studio here in Collingwood, Ontario, I browsed through a book entitled The Longevity Solution, written by Dr. James DiNicolantonio and Dr. Jason Fung .  They had an entire chapter on Tea, and it really laid out all the reasons, beyond amazing flavours,  we love it at Blue Mountain Tea Company.  Tea has been part of human culture for thousands of years, and modern research is beginning to explain why. Regular tea drinking may support overall health in several meaningful ways—from heart health to metabolism—while being one of the simplest habits to add to your day (DiNicolantonio & Fung, 2019).

Supports Heart Health

High blood pressure and heart disease are major health concerns worldwide. Studies suggest that regular tea consumption may help support healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, with long-term research linking tea drinking to reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke (Hodgson et al., 2013; Arab et al., 2009).

Helps Support Metabolism

Tea contains natural compounds called catechins, along with small amounts of caffeine, which may help increase metabolic rate and fat oxidation. Clinical studies have shown that green tea extract can modestly increase daily energy expenditure (Hursel et al., 2011; Dulloo et al., 1999).

May Help Balance Blood Sugar

Research suggests tea may support glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Population studies have found that regular tea consumption is associated with a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes (Iso et al., 2006; Jing et al., 2009).

Rich in Antioxidants

Tea is naturally rich in polyphenols, including EGCg, a catechin which help protect cells from oxidative stress and support overall cellular health (Cabrera et al., 2006).  All teas (true tea, meaning Camelia Sinensis) contain catechins, however green and white tea contain the highest percentage and therefore the highest percentage of EGCg.

A Health Habit That’s Easy to Keep

In many cultures, tea is consumed throughout the day and even in those that don’t have a generational tea practice, served iced, it is an easy swap for sugary beverages (as long as you’re not buying “sweet tea” in a tin or bottle.   

The bottom line: Tea is affordable, enjoyable, and supported by a growing body of research suggesting benefits for heart health, metabolism, and overall well-being. A few cups a day can be a simple step toward a healthier routine.

References

• Arab, L., Liu, W., & Elashoff, D. (2009). Stroke.
• Cabrera, C., Artacho, R., & Giménez, R. (2006). Journal of the American College of Nutrition.
• DiNicolantonio, J., & Fung, J. (2019). The Longevity Solution.
• Dulloo, A. G., et al. (1999). American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
• Hodgson, J. M., et al. (2013). Current Pharmaceutical Design.
• Hursel, R., et al. (2011). International Journal of Obesity.
• Iso, H., et al. (2006). Annals of Internal Medicine.
• Jing, Y., et al. (2009). Journal of General Internal Medicine.