Keeping the body hydrated is essential for the body to function properly — and it’s not just water that counts. A new study published in British Journal of Nutrition shows that balanced consumption of watercoffee and tea is associated with a lower risk of death from all causes, especially cardiovascular disease.
There is evidence that both coffee and green tea are good for cardiovascular health. Photo: Wesley/peopleimages.com/Adobe Stock
Researchers from China analyzed data from more than 182,000 adults from the UK Biobank, a study that assesses the health conditions of half a million people. The authors concluded that isolated consumption of coffee or tea is not as strongly associated with decreased mortality as combined consumption. “With some reservations, this is an interesting work, which reinforces that these drinks can contribute to hydration”, comments nutritionist Celso Cukier, from Einstein Hospital Israelita.
One of the limitations of the study is that the findings are observational, that is, they do not establish a cause and effect relationship. And as the results are based on participants’ questionnaire responses, important details may have been left out, such as how the drinks were prepared.
But, within the context of balance, there is evidence that both the café as for tea, especially Green Teaare allies of cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of some types of Canceramong other benefits.
In addition to presenting a rich blend of protective compoundsthe duo helps to hydrate the body. “As our body is made up of approximately 65% of water, it is essential to replace the losses that occur daily through diuresis, evacuation, sweating, breathing, among other means”, lists Cukier.
Vital reactions depend on the balance of fluids circulating through the body. When water leakage is greater than water gain, several health problems occur. The synthesis of all substances takes place in the aqueous environment; Furthermore, ensuring good water levels contributes to the transport of nutrients, thermal regulation and kidney, digestive, cardiovascular and pulmonary functions.
“Epidemiological studies show that adequate hydration is associated with a lower incidence of chronic diseases, being a marker of health and longevity”, says nutritionist Valéria Machado, collaborator in research in the Lipids, Atherosclerosis and Vascular Biology sector of the Cardiology discipline at Federal University of São Paulo (Unifesp).
It is worth remembering that the water should always be the main drinkand the ideal is not to wait until you are thirsty to take the first sip — the guideline is that hydration occurs throughout the day. “I often joke that we are not a water reservoir, so we need to distribute it gradually”, suggests Machado.
Although two liters per day are generally recommended, or something between 30 and 35 ml per kilo of weight, everything will depend on each person’s profile and routine. An athlete, for example, requires a greater amount because he tends to sweat more. “Remembering that many foods contain water, especially fruits“, highlights Cukier. It’s just not worth including soft drinks and other sugary products in the bill. In fact, for tea and coffee, it’s best not to sweeten them.
With the elderly, attention should also be redoubled. This is because the thirst mechanism is less effective as the years go by, so older people do not feel the need to replace fluids. On the other hand, there are conditions, such as patients with kidney failure, who must control their intake, following medical recommendations.
Coffee and tea, allies of the arteries
Considered one of the most popular drinks in the world, coffee has been scrutinized for its health effects. Many of its attributes are related to caffeine: the substance has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions, actions that help protect the endothelium, the cellular tissue that covers blood vessels.
Coffee also offers polyphenols, such as chlorogenic acid, which also combat oxidative stress and protect the arteries. It also contains compounds involved in modulating blood glucose levels, hence the drink’s link with reducing the risk of diabetes type 2.
Regarding tea, studies mention those prepared with Camellia sinensis, raw material of green, black and white. Like coffee, the plant provides caffeine and phenolics. One of the highlights is epigallocatechin gallate or EGCG, a powerful antioxidant, with proven anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective properties.
It doesn’t hurt to emphasize that, even with so many benefits, exaggeration can cause negative impacts. Consumption must be balanced and the benefits are linked to a healthy lifestyle — that is, one that includes physical activity, quality sleep, stress management, among other good habits.