Drinking tea aids in the prevention of cognitive decline new study finds

Journal Article 

Topic: Article Review

Josanne English

Drinking tea aids in the prevention of cognitive decline new study finds

Researchers from the National University of Singapore have found that drinking tea aids in the prevention of cognitive decline. The study was done based on neuroimaging data of thirty six older adults. The data was compared to non tea drinkers and the study found that drinking tea at least four times a week helped the brain create and maintain better passage ways for connectivity. The study was completed on 36 adults age 60 and up. The patients underwent neurological tests and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The study was carried out from 2015 to 2018. The article in the Science Daily states that,. “Upon analyzing the participants' cognitive performance and imaging results, the research team found that individuals who consumed either green tea, oolong tea, or black tea at least four times a week for about 25 years had brain regions that were interconnected in a more efficient way.”

Tea has long been a staple in many cultures. China is considered to have the earliest record of tea drinking, with recorded tea use in its history dating back to the millennium BCE. This study solidifies what many ancient cultures already knew: tea is beneficial for health and well being. Some of the benefits of tea drinking are:

Tea contains antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect cells from free radicals. Free radicals are molecules that the body produces when it breaks down food. Free radicals contribute to the aging process. Antioxidants combat the free radicals.

Tea may boost the immune system. Per an article listed in Today.com, “Studies have shown tea can tune up immune cells so they reach their targets quicker. Holy basil or tulsi tea has been used by Ayurvedic practitioners for centuries to help keep the immune system strong after injuries or illnesses thanks to its antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties.”

Herbal tea may soothe the digestive system. The same aforementioned article in Today.com also states that, “Herbal teas, in particular chamomile, can be good for people with irritable bowel syndrome because it is an antispasmodic. Ginger tea calms nausea.”

Drinking tea has also helped those with type 2 diabetes. An article in Time magazine states that the compound in green tea could help diabetics process sugars better. Tea is hydrating to the body despite the caffeine. Green tea has been found to improve bone mineral density and strength. Numerous studies have found that tea is an effective agent in the prevention and treatment of neurological diseases, especially degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. While many factors influence brain health, polyphenols in green tea may help maintain the parts of the brain that regulate learning and memory.

As you can see, there are many health benefits to drinking tea. Incorporating tea into your daily repertoire will be beneficial to your body and mind. Drinking tea at least four times a week, along with a healthy diet and consistent daily exercise, is integral to a healthy lifestyle.

Citations:

National University of Singapore. (2019, September 12). Drinking tea improves brain health, study suggests. ScienceDaily. Retrieved September 16, 2019 from www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/09/190912100945.htm

Carroll, L., & Wolf, D. (2016, March 18). Drinking tea may improve your health — here's what to try. Retrieved from https://www.today.com/series/one-small-thing/top-10-health-benefits-drinking-tea-t81111

Newcomber , L. (2012, September 4). 13 Reasons Tea Is Good for You. Retrieved from http://healthland.time.com/2012/09/04/13-reasons-to-love-tea/