Tea polyphenols may also limit cell multiplication, a cancer characteristic. In this way, tea may protect a person from environmental carcinogens in foods, tobacco smoke and air pollutants. Research in Norway and Israel also suggests that tea drinkers have lower serum cholesterol levels and thus lower risk of heart disease. One reason why Japanese have lower blood fat levels and reduced heart disease risk may be because they favor green tea. Green tea also lowers blood pressure in stroke-prone rats.
Tea is a rich source of fluoride and can strengthen tooth enamel.
Even a cup a day can provide a significant amount of fluoride. Tea can also reduce plaque formation on teeth that can lead to gum inflammation and bleeding and eventually lost teeth. But perhaps the most important reason to drink plenty of tea is how it helps people maintain enough water in their tissues. This is especially important during the hot summertime. Active, outdoors people and elderly are particularly prone to dehydration if they are overly exposed to hot temperatures.