According to research, consuming four or more cups of tea daily may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. A daily intake of one to three cups reduced the risk by 4%.
Regular consumption of black, green, or oolong tea was associated with a 17% reduction in diabetes risk over a mean of 10 years.
These results, based on a meta-analysis of 19 studies involving over a million participants, were presented at the annual meeting.
Certain components of tea, such as polyphenols, may lower blood glucose levels, but a sufficient amount of these bioactive compounds may be required to be effective.
Antioxidants and polyphenols found in tea have been linked to disease prevention, so drinking it may have health benefits.
To reduce type 2 diabetes risk, experts say people should watch their weight. Obesity causes 80 to 85% of type 2 diabetes cases.
Researchers reviewed eight countries' studies up to September 2021 and found different results. Each cup of tea per day reduced type 2 diabetes risk by 1%.
People who drink more tea may avoid sugary drinks or have other health behaviors that reduce their risk of type 2 diabetes.
But, there is no good trial evidence that the chemicals in tea prevent diabetes, so it's more likely that tea is healthier (less calorific) than many alternative drinks.