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Tea vs. Coffee: Bone Health Showdown
6 Sep
Summary
- Tea consumption linked to higher hip bone density.
- High coffee intake may reduce bone mineral density.
- Moderate coffee intake shows no negative bone effects.
A decade-long study by Flinders University researchers has uncovered a connection between tea and coffee consumption and bone mineral density (BMD) in women aged 65 and older. The research found that regular tea drinkers exhibited higher BMD in their hips. In contrast, excessive coffee consumption was associated with diminished bone density, a key indicator for osteoporosis.
However, the study specified that moderate coffee intake, defined as two to three cups daily, did not appear to negatively impact bone health. This suggests a nuanced relationship where quantity plays a crucial role.
The findings indicate that catechins in tea may aid bone formation and slow breakdown. Conversely, caffeine in coffee, in very high amounts, might interfere with calcium absorption. Adding milk to coffee can mitigate these effects.
