Research shows a cheap and satisfying hot beverage could help lower cholesterol levels naturally. It’s already popular with millions of people in the UK, who prefer it over a traditional breakfast brew.
According to Mintel, Brits under 35 are more willing to try different types of tea than older generations. The survey revealed that over half preferred a hot cup of green tea over traditional breakfast or black varieties.
Drinking green tea can have significant benefits for cholesterol and heart health. Several factors can cause high cholesterol, but the most common is an unhealthy diet and lifestyle.
Consuming fatty food and lack of sufficient exercise can lead to the accumulation of cholesterol deposits known as plaque that block your arteries, posing a serious risk of stroke or heart attack. Studies have discovered that green tea could help reduce cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes because it contains a specific type of antioxidant.
A study conducted in 2011 found that green tea is rich in catechins, a plant-based antioxidant, which resulted in a minor reduction in ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol. The experts observed that it didn’t alter ‘good’ HDL cholesterol, reports the Daily Record.
A 2013 review discovered that consuming green or black tea daily, whether as a beverage or in capsule form, can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure. However, the authors advised caution due to the short-term nature of the clinical trials included, suggesting that more extended trials are necessary to confirm the findings.
The following year, multiple studies’ analyses indicated a modest blood pressure reduction in individuals with hypertension who drank green tea, though it remained unclear if this decrease was significant enough to lower the risk of heart conditions or strokes. More recent research from 2020 also highlighted that green tea consumption “significantly lowered” total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) in 3,320 participants but without benefits to ‘good’ HDL cholesterol levels.
Nevertheless, incorporating green tea into your diet is beneficial for health. It could even assist in managing ‘bad’ cholesterol in conjunction with a balanced diet and any medications prescribed by a doctor. Interestingly, switching to green tea doesn’t have a hefty price tag.
You can pick up a box of 40 Diplomat Pure Green Tea Bags from Aldi for just 65p, equating to less than 1p per cup (if using a single teabag). There are even varieties with lemon or mint flavourings and decaf options – all for the same price.
High cholesterol does not usually cause symptoms. You can only find out if you have it from a blood test. If you’re diagnosed, your GP will likely suggest a strict diet and promote physical activity. Many individuals are also prescribed medications such as statins to manage their levels.
While the research on green tea looks promising for tackling high levels of ‘bad’ cholesterol, it is not a miracle cure. Still, the best ways to keep cholesterol in check are to follow a balanced diet, get regular sleep, exercise, maintain a healthy weight, ditch fatty foods, limit alcohol and quit smoking.