15.12.2025 18:10
A new study that followed approximately 10,000 women aged 65 and older for 10 years revealed that regular tea consumption may positively affect bone mineral density in older women. The results related to coffee consumption, however, are much more variable.
A new study has revealed that regular tea consumption may positively affect bone mineral density in older women.
10,000 WOMEN FOLLOWED FOR 10 YEARS
According to a report on Science Daily, researchers from Flinders University in Australia followed approximately 10,000 women aged 65 and older for 10 years to examine the possible relationship between bone health and coffee and tea consumption.
The study evaluated changes in bone mineral density, one of the key indicators for determining the risk of "osteoporosis," a chronic bone disease characterized by a significant increase in fracture risk due to the loss of bone density and strength.
While the participants' tea and coffee consumption amounts were recorded at regular intervals, the density of the hip and tibia, closely related to fracture risk, was measured using advanced imaging techniques.
REGULAR TEA CONSUMPTION MAY BE BENEFICIAL FOR BONE HEALTH IN OLDER WOMEN
According to the findings of the study, the total hip bone mineral density of women who consumed tea was somewhat higher compared to those who did not drink tea. Although the increase was limited, it was noted to be statistically significant.
Dr. Enwu Liu, an associate professor from the Flinders University School of Medicine and Public Health, stated that even small increases could contribute to a reduction in fracture risk across the population.
Ryan Liu, one of the co-authors of the study, pointed out that the catechins found in tea may support bone formation and slow down bone loss.
RESULTS ARE POOR FOR WOMEN WHO DRINK MORE THAN 5 CUPS OF COFFEE
The results related to coffee consumption were reported to be more variable. While consuming 2-3 cups of coffee per day did not show a negative effect on bone density, it was found that women who drank more than 5 cups of coffee per day had lower bone mineral density.
The study noted that particularly in women with a history of high alcohol consumption, the negative effects of high coffee consumption on bone health were more pronounced.
Liu stated that regular tea consumption could be a simple and accessible option to support bone health in old age, adding, "Our results do not mean you need to give up coffee or start drinking liters of tea."
DAILY BEVERAGE CHOICES MAY PLAY A SMALL BUT SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN BONE HEALTH
The researchers emphasized that calcium and vitamin D continue to be fundamental elements of bone health, indicating that daily beverage choices may also play a small but significant role in bone health.
The researchers highlighted that for older women, a daily cup of tea could be not just a habit but a choice that contributes to bone health.
Osteoporosis affects one in three women over the age of 50 and leads to millions of fractures each year, making bone health a significant global issue.
The results of the study were published in the journal "Nutrients."