TEAing up for Heart Health
One of my fondest childhood memories was visiting my great-grandmother. Her savory Hungarian cuisine was inevitably topped off with a slice of homemade Gerbeaud cake served with a glass of ginger lemon tea. Over the years, traditional black/green and herbal teas have become a staple in our home. As one of the heart healthiest beverages, 2-3 cups/glasses of tea each day reduces the risk of a heart attack/stroke by 20%!
Tea contains powerful antioxidants (such as polyphenols and catechins) and protects the heart by:
- Reducing toxic free radicals that promote cellular aging.
- Revving up fat metabolism to lower abdominal (or belly) fat.
- Dilating blood vessels for blood pressure lowering.
- Inhibiting blood clot formation.
- Improving mood and serenity.
Other heart-healthy properties of tea include 30-40% reduction in triglycerides, 15-20% lowering of blood glucose, and blunting of age-related decreases in HDL (the good cholesterol).
Among the most highly desirable teas is Argentinian Maté. In this category, I highly recommend Yerba Maté from Soul Maté. For my patients, I recommend 5 of the following teas based on flavor and heart-protective properties.
- Borage: In animal models, borage tea reduces cholesterol and liver fat . Excessive liver fat is associated with the development of the metabolic syndrome and Type 2 diabetes, both of which raise cardiovascular risk.
- Butterfly Pea Flower: Known as “blue tea” because of its color, a single cup can reduce anxiety and uplift mood to improve emotional/heart health. As picture above, my daughter Ilana is savoring an after dinner glass.
- Hibiscus: Drinking 2 cups of hibiscus tea daily reduces systolic blood pressure ~5-10 mmHg.
- Yerba Maté: One of South America’s liquid gems, this tea is an antioxidant powerhouse with heart protective properties that reduce cholesterol, improve glucose control and keep inflammation at bay.
- Valerian: For a more restful night’s sleep, try a cup of Valerian root tea. The Valerian root contains a high concentration of the mood stabilizing chemical GABA that enables relaxation and better sleep quality.
Michael Miller, MD is Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. Check out his book “Heal Your Heart…” for the Top 50 Heart Healthiest Foods/ Beverages..
Michael Miller, MD
MASPC, FACC, FAHA, FNLA
Dr. Miller is a leading cardiologist and heart health expert whose pioneering research on positive emotions, diet, and physical activity supports the integration of all three modalities for optimal vascular health.