offee and tea may actually have many health benefits. While green tea was popular for several years as a healthy source of vitamins and antioxidants, newer research has shown that darker beverages like black tea and coffee may actually be better for you. These dark beverages are a rich source of compounds called polyphenols, which may protect against both heart disease and several types of cancer.
Recent studies, for example, have consistently demonstrated a decreased risk of liver cancer in men who drink coffee.
Coffee and tea polyphenols have been shown to lower the level of activated platelets in the blood, which may help prevent blood clots that can lead to stroke. Polyphenols have also been shown to lower the body's concentration of C-reactive protein (CRP),an important factor in inflammation. Decreases in CRP have previously been shown to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, heart attack, and certain types of kidney disease.
Though coffee and tea contain a lot of polyphenols, other types of polyphenols can be found in different foods. All polyphenols have been shown to have health benefits, but the most beneficial besides those in coffee and tea seem to be:
- Grape polyphenols
- Apple polyphenols
- Chocolate polyphenols (dark chocolate with more than 80 percent cocoa)
While the scientific evidence should reassure you if you are a coffee or tea drinker, it doesn't mean you should start because of the potential health benefits. A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables is also a great source of polyphenols and polyphenol-related compounds.
Sources:
Hartley, T et al. Hypertension Risk Status and Effect of Caffeine on Blood Pressure. Hypertension 2000; 36(1):137-41.
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