If you’re like most people, you probably start your morning with a cup of coffee. After all, it’s the go-to drink for many Americans, offering a quick energy boost and a delicious flavor.

But did you know that tea may actually be a better choice for your heart health? According to numerous studies, tea has a variety of heart-healthy benefits that coffee simply can’t match.

Lower Blood Pressure

One of the biggest benefits of tea is its ability to lower blood pressure. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease, so keeping it in check is extremely important for your heart health.

A number of studies have found that drinking tea can help reduce blood pressure levels.

For example, a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that people who drank three cups of tea per day had significantly lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels compared to those who didn’t drink tea.

Another study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that drinking black tea for 12 weeks reduced systolic blood pressure by an average of 2 to 3 points.

Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease

Drinking tea on a regular basis can also help reduce your risk of developing heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, so taking steps to prevent it is crucial for your overall health.

Several studies have found that people who drink tea regularly have a lower risk of heart disease compared to those who don’t drink tea.

For example, a study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that people who drank more than three cups of tea per day had a 20% lower risk of heart disease compared to those who drank less than one cup per day.

Increase Antioxidant Levels

Tea is also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against heart disease and other illnesses. Antioxidants work by neutralizing free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to a variety of health problems.

One study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that drinking black tea increased antioxidant levels in the blood, while another study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that drinking green tea significantly increased antioxidant activity in the body.

Choose the Right Type of Tea

While all types of tea offer health benefits, some varieties are better for your heart than others. Herbal teas, for example, don’t contain caffeine and aren’t as effective at reducing blood pressure and preventing heart disease.

If you want to get the most heart-healthy benefits from your tea, stick with black or green tea. Both types of tea contain high levels of antioxidants and can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Add Tea to Your Daily Routine

If you’re a coffee drinker looking to improve your heart health, consider adding tea to your daily routine.

Drinking just a few cups of tea per day can provide significant health benefits, including lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart disease.

To get the most out of your tea, choose high-quality teas from reputable brands and consider brewing your own tea instead of buying pre-packaged tea bags. This can help ensure that you’re getting the full health benefits of the tea.

The Bottom Line

While coffee may be a beloved morning ritual for many, tea offers a variety of heart-healthy benefits that should not be overlooked.

Whether you choose black tea or green tea, adding a few cups of tea to your daily routine can help lower your blood pressure, reduce your risk of heart disease, and provide a wealth of antioxidants.

So next time you’re looking for a hot drink to start your day, consider brewing a cup of tea instead of reaching for that cup of coffee.