“We found that men who drank the most [black] tea had more risk of developing prostate cancer.” That was the phrase that researcher Kashif Shafique said when he exposed the study he led through the Institute of Health and Welfare at the University of Glasgow, Scotland. The research aimed to find out if black tea had any relationship with prostate cancer, the most common disease among Scots. To get an idea, the cases of this problem, in the country where the analysis was proposed, increased by 7.4% between 2000 and 2010.The resulting concern with men’s health and the high numbers of cases of prostate cancer were the crucial points for the development of this study. For 37 years, the health of just over six thousand men was closely monitored. And the result was surprising: those who drank seven cups of tea a day were 50% more likely to develop cancer compared to those who did not drink.

about the study

The survey analyzed data from exactly 6,016 volunteers ranging in age from 21 to 75 years. In the study, participants answered a questionnaire about their habits regarding the consumption of tea, alcohol, coffee, cigarettes and other situations that involved their health. Of all the members, the quarter had the habit of drinking black tea regularly and in large quantities. Of this total, 6.4% developed prostate cancer.

Thus, experts were able to conclude that those who drink the tea are twice as likely to have this health problem, compared to those who drink little or no amounts.

The Benefits of Black Tea Moderation

Even with this negative aspect disclosed by the Institute of Health and Welfare, University of Glasgow, black tea can be an ally of health, if consumption is moderate. For example, according to a study carried out at the University of Singapore with 2,500 people over 55, this same drink can help maintain memory. According to the survey results, 65% of seniors who drink at least two cups of tea a day maintained levels of cognitive ability, as well as attention and memory.

In addition, tea, if consumed correctly and without exaggeration, helps cardiovascular function, improves digestive processes and the health of the brain, bones and nervous system. It also acts as an energy stimulator and is a great option for taking care of hair and skin health.