A new study suggests that drinking tea may help reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death in people who already have coronary heart disease (CHD). CHD is the most common form of heart disease, affecting about 1 in 20 adults in the United States.
Researchers analyzed data from more than 25,000 adults with established CHD who were part of the UK Biobank. Participants were followed for an average of nearly 14 years. During that time, researchers tracked major adverse cardiovascular events, including heart attack, stroke, and death from cardiovascular causes.
The study also looked at levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation, and Lp(a), a largely genetic risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The goal was to see if either factor influenced the relationship between tea drinking and heart health outcomes.
The results showed that drinking about three cups of tea per day, compared to drinking no tea, was linked to a 17% lower risk of heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death. Drinking four or more cups daily was still associated with a benefit, but it did not provide extra protection beyond the three-cup mark.
The strongest protective effects were seen in people who had higher levels of inflammation at the start of the study. This makes sense, researchers said, because tea is known to have anti-inflammatory properties, and inflammation is a known driver of heart-related complications. The benefits were also stronger in people with lower Lp(a) levels, which is considered a layer of genetic protection against cardiovascular events.
The study did not find evidence that Lp(a) itself explained tea’s benefits. Instead, the findings suggest that inflammation may be a key factor in determining who gains the most from drinking tea.
Tea contains polyphenols and other plant compounds that may help support healthy blood vessels, improve endothelial function, and fight oxidative stress. These factors all play a role in the progression of heart disease.
The study did not distinguish between types of tea, so it is not possible to say whether one variety was responsible for the benefits. However, green tea has some of the strongest research behind it for heart health. It is rich in catechins, particularly EGCG, a compound linked to healthy cholesterol levels, blood vessel function, and reduced oxidative stress. Black, oolong, and herbal teas also provide beneficial compounds, so people can mix and match what they drink throughout the day to reach three cups.
For those who do not drink tea, a growing body of research suggests that moderate coffee consumption, also at about three cups per day or 24 ounces, supports heart health.
If tea is already part of a daily routine, this study offers another reason to keep drinking it. Caffeinated brews like green, black, and oolong should be consumed earlier in the day to avoid disrupting sleep. Herbal teas are a good choice for afternoons and nighttime routines.
