Research indicates tea drinkers have a lower risk of developing heart disease or stroke. Earlier studies found that people who drink tea reduce their risk of heart disease 40 to 50 percent. This is not the end of the story. Further research is necessary to confirm these preliminary results. Drinking tea also may be good for the vascular system.
Tea contains substances known as flavanoids.
They can keep platelets from sticking together and therefore preventing blood clots. Flavanoids may have other effects on the body, such as affecting cholesterol ratios and other substances involved in clotting. The antioxidant effects of tea also may prevent some cancers. Epidemiological studies have shown people who consume tea develop fewer cancers than comparable subjects who did not drink tea. Again it is too early to draw conclusions, but interest is high.