New research has found that drinking tea could change your genes. The Uppsala Universitet study found that women who drink tea experience epigenetic changes (chemical changes that turn genes on or off) in genes that interact with cancer and oestrogen metabolism.
Researchers have known for some times that the foods we eat, as well as smoking and other chemicals can change our genes. But this is the first time they've found tea does the same.
Published in Human Molecular Genetics journal, the study found that only women experience epigenetic changes after a hot cuppa – and not men.
It also highlighted was how many of the changes were found in genes linked to cancer and oestrogen metabolism.
Why?
Study leader Weronica Ek, researcher at the Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology explained:
"Previous studies have shown that tea consumption reduces oestrogen levels, which highlights a potential difference between the biological response to tea in men and women.
"Women also drink higher amounts of tea compared to men, which increases our power to find association in women."
And while the study also looked at coffee consumption, the research team didn't find any association between coffee and epigenetic changes.
What do the findings mean?
It's early days, so the researchers can't comment on whether it's healthy or not to drink tea. They also say more digging is needed to see how the genetic changes might positively or negatively affect women's health.
If you're concerned about whether or not you should drink tea, speak with a health professional – like a dietitian or nutritionist.
Originally published on Apr 09, 2018
