A recent study conducted by researchers at Flinders University in Adelaide, South Australia, reveals that drinking tea may strengthen bones in older women, while excessive coffee consumption could increase the risk of fractures. The research, which followed nearly 10,000 women aged 65 and older over a decade, provides new insights into the impact of these popular beverages on bone health.
The study investigated the relationship between daily coffee and tea intake and changes in bone mineral density (BMD), a critical indicator of osteoporosis risk. Osteoporosis affects one in three women over the age of 50, leading to millions of fractures annually. Previous research on the effects of coffee and tea on bone health had produced mixed results, with few studies examining the long-term impact.
According to the findings published in the journal Nutrients, tea drinkers exhibited a modest but statistically significant increase in total hip BMD compared to those who did not consume tea. The research team noted that even minor improvements in bone density could lead to fewer fractures on a population level.
Professor Enwu Liu, a co-author of the study from Flinders University’s College of Medicine and Public Health, stated, “Even small improvements in bone density can translate into fewer fractures across large groups.” The study suggests that a daily cup of tea could be an effective strategy for enhancing bone health as women age.
Coffee, on the other hand, presents a more complex scenario. While moderate consumption—around two to three cups per day—did not appear to harm bone health, the study found that exceeding five cups daily was linked to lower BMD. Professor Liu pointed out that women with higher lifetime alcohol consumption experienced more pronounced negative effects from coffee, whereas tea seemed to offer specific benefits for women with obesity.
Researchers identified compounds called catechins, abundant in tea, as potential contributors to improved bone formation and reduced bone breakdown. Ryan Liu, another co-author from Flinders University, explained, “Coffee’s caffeine content, by contrast, has been shown in laboratory studies to interfere with calcium absorption and bone metabolism, though these effects are small and can be offset by adding milk.”
The study’s authors emphasize that while moderate coffee drinking appears safe, very high consumption may not be ideal, particularly for women who consume alcohol. They advise that the observed differences in bone health are statistically significant but not substantial enough to warrant drastic lifestyle changes.
“Our results don’t mean you need to give up coffee or start drinking tea by the gallon,” Professor Liu clarified. “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, the research highlights the potential benefits of tea for older women’s bone health, suggesting that enjoying a daily cup may not only provide comfort but also serve as a small step toward maintaining stronger bones. As calcium and vitamin D remain essential for bone health, incorporating tea into one’s routine could offer additional support.
