Tea is linked with higher bone mineral density (BMD) at the hip in women aged 65 and older but coffee may pose risks, says a new research from Flinders University. The study followed nearly 0,000 women for ten years, assessing their tea and coffee intake alongside changes in BMD — a key marker for osteoporosis risk.
Osteoporosis affects one in three women over 50, causing millions of fractures globally. With billions drinking coffee and tea daily, this study helps clarify their impact on bone health over time.
Adjunct Associate Professor Enwu Liu explains, “Even modest gains in bone density can lead to fewer fractures across large populations.”
Coffee’s Effects Depend on Consumption Level and Lifestyle
The study showed that moderate coffee drinking — around two to three cups per day — did not harm bone health. In contrast, consuming more than five cups daily was associated with lower BMD, indicating potential risks from excessive intake.
Women with higher lifetime alcohol consumption experienced greater negative effects from coffee, whereas tea appeared especially beneficial for women with obesity.
Ryan Liu, co-author, notes that tea’s catechins promote bone formation and may slow bone breakdown, while coffee’s caffeine can interfere slightly with calcium absorption and bone metabolism. Adding milk might offset coffee’s negative effects.
Practical Takeaways for Older Women
Enjoying a cup of tea daily may support healthy bones as women age.
Moderate coffee consumption seems safe for bone health but avoid excessive intake, especially when combined with alcohol use. Calcium and vitamin D remain essential, but beverage choices might provide additional benefits.
Associate Professor Liu cautions, “Our findings don’t mean quitting coffee or consuming unlimited tea but suggest simple lifestyle choices could support bone strength over time.”
For older women seeking simple, effective ways to support bone health, enjoying daily tea may offer more than comfort—it might help build stronger bones. Meanwhile, moderation with coffee, especially for those who consume alcohol, is advisable.
Q&A: What Women Should Know About Tea, Coffee, and Bone Health
Q: How many women participated in this study?
A: Nearly 10,000 women aged 65 and older were followed for a decade.
Q: What effects did tea have on bone health?
A: Tea drinkers showed slightly higher hip bone density than non-tea drinkers, reducing fracture risk.
Q: Is moderate coffee drinking safe for bones?
A: Yes, 2–3 cups daily had no harmful effect, but over 5 cups linked to lower bone density.
Q: How do alcohol and obesity influence these findings?
A: High alcohol intake worsens coffee’s effects; tea benefits were stronger in women with obesity.
Q: Should women change their coffee or tea habits based on this?
A: Not necessarily; the study suggests moderate tea drinking could help, but excessive coffee might pose risks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is bone mineral density (BMD)?
A1: BMD measures bone strength; lower BMD indicates higher risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
Q2: Why is osteoporosis a concern for older women?
A2: It increases fracture risk, impacting mobility and quality of life.
Q3: What compounds in tea benefit bones?
A3: Catechins in tea help promote bone formation and reduce bone loss.
Q4: How does caffeine affect bone health?
A4: Caffeine can interfere with calcium absorption but effects are small and can be offset with milk.
Q5: How significant were the changes in bone density in the study?
A5: While statistically meaningful, differences were modest and more relevant at a population level.
