Saed News: Osteoporosis is usually not given as much attention as heart disease or cancer, but its impact on quality of life is very significant. This disease occurs when bone density and bone mass decrease, and it often shows no clear symptoms until a fracture happens.
According to SAEDNEWS, with increasing age—especially after menopause—the risk of osteoporosis increases. For this reason, researchers are constantly looking for daily habits that can protect bone health. Now, the results of a new study suggest that drinking tea, especially in the morning, may be one of these beneficial habits.
Australian researchers analyzed about 10 years of data from a large study involving more than 9,700 women aged 65 and older. During the study, bone density in the femoral neck and hip joint of participants was regularly measured. They were also asked about their daily consumption of coffee and tea. For tea, only common types such as black tea, green tea, and iced tea were included, while herbal or caffeine-free teas were not considered.
Other factors such as age, body mass index, smoking, physical activity, alcohol consumption, menopause age, and calcium and protein intake were also taken into account in the analysis.
Researchers found that drinking coffee had no positive effect on bone density. Even people who consumed more than five cups of coffee per day may have experienced greater bone loss.
However, the results for tea were different. Women who regularly drank tea had higher bone density in the hip joint area. This suggests that tea consumption may help maintain bone strength in old age.
However, researchers emphasized that this study cannot prove a cause-and-effect relationship, and there were limitations, including self-reported beverage intake and lack of precise data on cup size or concentration.
Tea is rich in active plant compounds and antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. Some of these compounds may play a role in preserving bone structure and slowing bone loss.
In addition, tea consumption in various studies has been linked to benefits such as improved immune function, better heart health, and even increased longevity.
Experts emphasize that tea is only part of a healthy bone-supporting lifestyle. To maintain bone density with age, the following are also important:
Weight-bearing exercises such as walking, light running, and strength training
Adequate intake of dairy products and other calcium sources
Eating canned fish with bones such as salmon and sardines
Consuming legumes and cruciferous vegetables
Following a Mediterranean diet
Avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption
This study suggests that regular tea consumption may be associated with higher bone density in postmenopausal older women, while drinking more than five cups of coffee per day may have negative effects on bone health. If you are looking for a simple and enjoyable habit to support your bones, drinking a cup of tea at the start of the day can be a useful choice alongside proper nutrition and regular physical activity.
