Tea helps fight heart problems and diabetes, review concludes
A recent review published in UK's Nutrition Bulletin found that regular consumption of black tea protects against cardiovascular complications and type 2 diabetes. Three cups of black tea per day, with or without milk, can reduce the risk of heart problems by cutting levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and blood sugar. Two or more cups a day may protect against type 2 diabetes. Scientists attribute these beneficial effects to flavanoids, a type of antioxidant found in tea that fights excessive pro-oxidant free radicals in the body. One typical cup of black tea contains 150-200mg of flavanoids. In addition, a 12-week study of 87 volunteers found that drinking three cups of tea a day produced a significant improvement in various cardiovascular risk factors.