Guangzhou, Aug. 19 (SANA) Regular tea consumption may be associated with higher bone mineral density among middle-aged and older adults, according to a recent study.
German broadcaster Deutsche Welle reported Wednesday that researchers from China’s Sun Yat-sen University and Southern Medical University analyzed data from more than 2,000 Chinese adults enrolled in the Guangzhou Nutrition and Health Study.
Participants were followed for up to 13 years as part of a population study launched in Guangzhou in 2008 to examine factors associated with bone health and chronic diseases.
Participants underwent scans measuring bone mineral density in areas including the lumbar spine, hip and femoral neck. They were grouped according to tea consumption as non-drinkers and low-, moderate- and high-frequency consumers.
The results showed that moderate tea drinkers generally had more favorable bone mineral density measurements, particularly in the lumbar spine and femoral neck.
Researchers said the findings did not establish a direct relationship between increased tea consumption and improved bone health. The moderate-consumption group recorded the most positive results, but no optimal amount of tea was identified.
The study also examined five plant compounds in tea known as flavan-3-ols. Higher levels were generally associated with better bone-health indicators.
Researchers said some of these compounds may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and could affect bone remodeling and the activity of bone-forming and bone-resorbing cells. However, these mechanisms require further study.
The researchers stressed that the findings do not prove tea prevents osteoporosis or fractures, nor did the study determine how much tea could benefit bone health.
Maintaining healthy bones also requires adequate calcium, vitamin D and protein, along with physical activity and strength training.
N.J/M.F
