New research from Flinders University in Adelaide, Australia, indicates that older women may enhance their bone health by substituting coffee with tea. The study highlights that while moderate coffee consumption is generally safe, exceeding five cups a day could elevate the risk of bone fractures.
Over a decade, the research team monitored nearly 10,000 women aged 65 and older to assess how their daily consumption of coffee and tea correlated with changes in bone mineral density (BMD). This measurement serves as a critical indicator for osteoporosis, a condition that affects one in three women over 50, leading to millions of fractures annually.
Tea’s Positive Impact on Bone Health
The findings, published in the journal Nutrients, revealed that participants who drank tea exhibited a modest but statistically significant increase in total hip BMD compared to those who did not consume tea. Study co-author Professor Enwu Liu from Flinders University’s College of Medicine and Public Health remarked, “Even small improvements in bone density can translate into fewer fractures across large groups.”
In contrast, the study presented a more complex relationship concerning coffee. While moderate consumption—defined as about two to three cups daily—did not appear to adversely affect bone health, excessive intake of over five cups daily was linked to reduced BMD.
Understanding the Risks of Coffee
Professor Liu noted that women with higher lifetime alcohol consumption faced more pronounced negative effects from coffee. Interestingly, tea showed particular benefits for women with obesity, suggesting that dietary choices can be critical in influencing bone health.
The study’s researchers attributed the positive effects of tea to compounds called catechins, which may encourage bone formation and inhibit bone breakdown. Conversely, coffee’s caffeine content has been found to disrupt calcium absorption and bone metabolism, though these effects are minimal and can be mitigated by incorporating milk.
Professor Liu emphasized that enjoying a daily cup of tea may be a straightforward strategy for supporting bone health in older women. He stated, “While moderate coffee drinking appears safe, very high consumption may not be ideal, especially for women who drink alcohol.”
Despite the statistically significant observations, the research team advised against drastic lifestyle changes based solely on the findings. “Our results don’t mean you need to give up coffee or start drinking tea by the gallon,” Professor Liu explained. “But they do suggest that moderate tea consumption could be one simple way to support bone health, and that very high coffee intake might not be ideal, especially for women who drink alcohol.”
In conclusion, while traditional recommendations around calcium and vitamin D remain essential for maintaining bone health, this study underscores the potential role that beverage choices can play. For older women, integrating a daily cup of tea into their routine may provide not only comfort but also a proactive step toward stronger bones.
