A new study published in Frontiers in Nutrition has confirmed that drinking tea regularly can lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease and strokes. Despite this, a survey by the Tea Advisory Panel (TAP) reveals that 72% of people think about their heart health, but only a third cite drinking tea as an action they take to protect their heart.
Brits Missing Out on Heart Health Benefits
Dr Tim Bond, a scientist and member of TAP, said: “Many Brits are missing a trick when it comes to this easy way to take care of their heart.” The study highlights tea’s rich polyphenol content and notes the clear benefits of daily tea drinking for cardiovascular health. The research adds to a large body of existing evidence supporting tea’s effects on cholesterol levels, blood pressure, inflammation, and blood clotting.
However, the TAP survey found that only 16% of Brits linked drinking tea with heart health, while 17% said a cuppa was good for lowering blood pressure. Furthermore, only 16% associated tea with reducing blood sugar levels, and just 14% made the connection between tea and weight management. Dr Bond described this as “a shockingly low appreciation” of the positive effects of tea on heart health.
Green Tea and High-Protein Diet Reduces Stroke Risk
Another recent study examined dietary patterns in relation to heart attack and stroke incidence. Researchers found that people who consumed a high-protein diet supplemented with a few cups of green tea had reduced risks of stroke and heart attack, particularly among women.
GP and TAP member Dr Nisa Aslam explained: “The heart health benefits of the high-protein and green tea diet were probably due to the combined effects of the muscle-building protein and the antioxidant green tea, which help manage appetite and weight while protecting blood vessels from damage.”
Four Cups a Day is the Sweet Spot
Dr Bond noted that these 2025 scientific studies are welcome additions to the growing evidence supporting tea for heart health. With cardiovascular disease remaining the leading cause of death globally, he said it is reassuring that a simple daily habit can be so beneficial.
Dr Bond added: “Previous research has shown that the sweet spot is four cups of tea a day – or 400-600 mg daily of the flavonoids known as flavan-3-ols – to dampen the effects of stress on the body.”
