Is there anything better than a hot cup of freshly brewed tea on a cold morning?
Now scientists have found that indulging in this ancient pleasurable ritual, could also be good for your health, thanks to the drink’s bone-strengthening qualities.
The report published in the Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition journal found that increased tea consumption was found to correlate with higher bone mineral density (BMD).
It is believed that the flavonoids found in tea could prevent osteoporosis and reduce the risk of fractures related to ageing, particularly for women.
The findings are positive for menopausal women whose bone health suffers due to reduced oestrogen levels. A 5 per cent higher rate of BMD was discovered among tea drinking post-menopausal women as flavonoids mimic oestrogen.
Researchers from Brock University in Canada have reviewed previously published studies from around the world to support the study.
But careful how many cups you drink per day, as increased benefits were only apparent for participants who drank one cup of tea per day rather than four or more cups.