The antioxidant properties of tea indeed help slow down aging
- Felix Lee
- Feb 3
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 4
Other than water, tea is the most consumed beverage worldwide. And for good reason: tea is great for you, particularly the green variety. Green tea is a nutrition unicorn.
Several benefits of green tea are supported by solid research. Others, much less so. For example, influencers sometimes gush about green tea being “nature’s Ozempic,” suggesting it’s as effective as obesity medication. If this claim sounds exaggerated, that’s because it is, researchers say.
Tea leaves are unique because they have more catechins than any other drink or food. These compounds protect cells from damage as we get older.
A study was to examine the consumption of green, black, or no tea, in relation to the previously validated successful ageing index (SAI; higher values “healthier” ageing) in a combined analysis of adults aged >50 years old. The result shows, green tea was positively associated with SAI (b ± SE: 0.225 ± 0.055, p < 0.001), Green tea (vs black tea) consumption, had higher odds of a SAI of over 3.58 out of 10 (OR: 1.77, 95% CI: 1.38–2.28). Green tea consumption was also associated with higher levels of physical activity (p < 0.001) and reduced likelihood of hypertension (p = 0.006) compared with black tea.
Key Compounds in Tea and Their Anti-Aging Effects
Polyphenols: Tea is rich in polyphenols, which are potent antioxidants that neutralize free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative stress—a major contributor to aging. A study published in Molecules highlighted that green tea consumption is associated with a higher likelihood of successful aging, attributed to its high polyphenol content.
Catechins: Predominantly found in green tea, catechins like epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) have demonstrated significant anti-aging effects. Research in Aging revealed that EGCG and epicatechin gallate (ECG) enhance fitness and delay aging by modulating key genetic pathways.
Theaflavins: Present in black tea, theaflavins possess antioxidant properties that contribute to anti-aging. A review in Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity discussed the health benefits of theaflavins, including their role in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which are linked to aging.
Scientific Evidence Supporting Tea's Anti-Aging Benefits
Skin Health: An article in Molecules reported that green tea consumption is associated with a higher likelihood of successful aging, suggesting benefits for skin health.
Longevity: A study highlighted by Earth.com found that regular tea consumption can delay biological aging in humans. The polyphenols in tea influence gut microbiota, affecting age-related changes in immunity, metabolism, and cognitive function.
Conclusion
The bioactive compounds in tea, such as polyphenols, catechins, and theaflavins, play a significant role in mitigating the aging process. Regular consumption of tea, particularly green and black varieties, has been associated with various anti-aging benefits, including improved skin health, enhanced cognitive function, and increased longevity. Incorporating tea into one's daily routine may be a beneficial strategy for promoting healthy aging.
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