Start Your Kettles for Bone Health

Compounds in tea may support increased bone density

There is ongoing controversy over whether or not drinking tea contributes to osteoporosis – a condition characterized by decreased bone mineral density (BMD) which happens when the body loses too much bone, or simply doesn’t make enough.  It’s a common condition that affects over 50 million Americans, one in two women aged 50 or older will likely break a bone as a result.  Currently it’s recommended to consume tea and other caffeine containing beverages in moderation as they may decrease calcium absorption which contributes to bone loss.  However, an updated meta-analysis of 16 studies may poke holes in that recommendation.

While tea does contain modest amounts of caffeine, it’s also a source of polyphenols like EGCG which is credited for many health benefits (green tea in particular), including anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects.  Investigators believe EGCG and other compounds in green, black and oolong teas may contribute to bone health by supporting growth of bone building cells, or by hindering growth of cells that break down bone.

This article, published in Nutrition Research, examined data from over 130,000 patients, concluding that tea consumption could increase BMD and saw no association with bone fracture.  Though encouraged by the findings, the Chinese researchers suggested the need for clinical trials to further investigate the relationship.  This was the first meta-analysis to look into the association between tea and osteoporosis.

Whether you’re new to the tea world, or have been enjoying it for years, we think you may enjoy our updated twist to tea time.   Banana Coconut Almond Hot Tea , it’s warm, earthy and slightly sweet flavors are a perfect way to cozy up on February nights. 

Bonus:   Small amounts (500mg) of flavonoids daily, such as those found in a cup of tea, may have a hearth protective benefit due to their anti-inflammatory properties.

Published February 1, 2019