The strong link between the antioxidants in tea and good cardiovascular health has been highlighted by experts in a recent literature review.
Research has shown that drinking at least four cups of tea a day helps cut the risk of a heart attack, promoting a healthier cardiovascular system.
Dr Carrie Ruxton, nutritionist and member of the Tea Advisory Panel, said: "The two key benefits from tea are hydration and antioxidants.
"The research also shows that the antioxidants in tea are absorbed. They are polyphenols – the same sort of polyphenols that you get in colourful fruits and vegetables, in cocoa and in red wine. And these have been associated with a lower risk of heart disease."
Laboratory studies have demonstrated that key antioxidants protect cells from oxidation, thus limiting the amount of cell damage.
According to Ms Ruxton, existing evidence proves that populations that drink the highest amounts of tea suffer from fewer cases of heart attacks.
Other reports on the health benefits of tea suggest that the popular drink could make a positive contribution to bone mineral density, disproving some earlier suggestions that the caffeine and fluoride in the drink may have an adverse effect on bone health.
