HealthHot tea linked to higher esophageal cancer risk, study reveals

Hot tea linked to higher esophageal cancer risk, study reveals

Drinking hot beverages is a short road to esophageal cancer.
Drinking hot beverages is a short road to esophageal cancer.
Images source: © Adobe Stock | Leonid Iastremskyi

14 July 2024 13:41

Regular consumption of tea is highly recommended not only due to its unique taste but also because of its numerous health benefits. However, the latest studies indicate that drinking hot tea can significantly increase the risk of esophageal cancer.

Scientists from various countries have repeatedly analyzed the composition of tea and its impact on human health. This beverage is rich in vitamins, minerals, theine, and other valuable nutrients. These nutrients have a significant effect on our bodies. Thanks to them, tea acts as a stimulant, improves circulation, regulates blood pressure, aids digestion, protects the digestive system from bacteria, and prevents tooth decay.

Many people also enjoy tea's unique taste qualities. Many variants of this beverage are available in the market, and tea lovers regularly choose different flavours.

Do you like hot tea? It's time to change your habits

Researchers decided to examine the impact of tea's temperature on our health. The results of these studies were published in the renowned medical journal International Journal of Cancer. For many people, they may be alarming.

A long-term study from 2004 to 2017 involved data from over 50,000 people aged 40 to 75 years. Dr. Farhad Islami from the American Cancer Society led the research team to record 317 new cases of esophageal cancer. As it turned out, one issue significantly impacts its development.

According to the lead author of the study, drinking hot water is associated with a higher risk of esophageal cancer, even among people who do not drink alcohol or have never smoked cigarettes.

The study finds that consuming at least 700 millilitres of hot tea (about two cups) at temperatures exceeding 60 degrees Celsius increases the risk of esophageal cancer by up to 90%. Dr. Farhad Islami emphasizes that to protect our health, we should wait for the tea to cool down before drinking it. Fans of boiling water should follow this advice.

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