The best tea to reduce risk of stroke, according to experts

Ua healthy diet can have a relevant impact on the reduction of the risk of stroke, and this also includes the choices of drinks.

Well, tea is the most consumed drink in the world and there are good reasons for it. Depending on the chosen one, it can bring countless health benefits. 

According to an EatingWell article, there is a tea that experts recommend to reduce the risk of stroke: green tea.

Why green tea is best to reduce the risk of stroke

Helps to reduce inflammation

During infusion, compounds that can be beneficial to heart health are also transferred to drink. 

“Green tea is rich in catechins, which are polyphenols found in several plants,” says nutritionist Patricia Kolesa.

Polyphenols are best known for their anti-inflammatory effects. 

When inflammation is not controlled, it can damage the artery cells and increase the risk of stroke. Regular consumption of foods rich in antioxidants, such as green tea, helps reduce the risk of cellular damage, reducing excess inflammation.

Contributes to healthier blood vessels

Green tea offers unique antioxidants that also benefit vascular health. Nutritionist Anne Danahy explains that green tea leaves are rich in a type of catechine called epigalocatequine-3-galate (EGCG).

“EGCG can reduce inflammation and protect blood vessels in the brain,” he said. 

This damage control helps reduce the risk of stroke, protecting the blood brain barrier, which is the protective layer on the inner surface of the blood vessels of the brain.

Blood vessel health is also important for blood pressure control. “Green tea consumption has been associated with modest improvements in blood pressure, which is one of the most important modifiable risk factors for stroke,” says dietist Sapna Peruvemba.

Helps lower cholesterol

A green cup of tea can offer potential benefits to cholesterol. “EGCG surveys have found that it can reduce LDL cholesterol (‘bad’) — the type of cholesterol that causes plaque accumulation in blood vessels, restricting blood flow,” says Danahy.

High cholesterol is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, such as stroke.

Helping to Control Stress

Chronic stress can have a real impact on health. In fact, there is increasing evidence that chronic stress increases the chances of someone suffering a stroke. 

This is because among the risk factors is high blood pressure, poor sleep, unhealthy habits and systemic inflammation, which can be exacerbated by stress. Green tea provides an amino acid called L-theanine, which can help reduce stress and anxiety.