Tea Consumption Linked to Stronger Bone Density
A 2025 study found that regular tea intake may improve hip bone mineral density in women over 65.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Tea
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Researchers at Flinders University analyzed decade-long data from 9,700 women to investigate the impact of tea and coffee on bone health. The findings suggest a positive association between consistent tea consumption and higher hip bone mineral density in women over the age of 65.
Why it matters
Understanding dietary impacts on bone strength is critical as osteoporosis currently affects one in three women over age 50. These findings highlight how specific beverage choices may influence long-term skeletal health as women age.
The study utilized a 10-year tracking period for 9,700 women, measuring bone density in the hip and femur via dual X-ray absorptiometry. Results indicated that consuming more than five cups of coffee daily was linked to reduced bone mineral density.
The players
Flinders University
An Australian public research university that led the study on dietary habits and bone density.
Nutrients
A peer-reviewed scientific journal that publishes research on human nutrition.
The details
The study, published in the journal Nutrients, suggests that catechins found in tea may stimulate cells responsible for bone formation. Conversely, high caffeine intake was associated with lower bone mineral density, particularly in women with high lifetime alcohol consumption, likely due to impaired calcium absorption.
Timeline
The findings were published in the journal Nutrients in 2025.
Culture Shift
This research follows a growing trend of examining specific beverage compounds as manageable factors in preventative healthcare. It marks a shift from solely focusing on dairy and calcium supplements toward broader nutritional profiles that include common daily beverages.
For women over 65, these findings suggest that swapping a few cups of coffee for tea could be a simple dietary adjustment to support bone strength. Readers should continue to prioritize calcium-rich diets and consult their doctors regarding specific bone density risks.
The takeaway
While these findings are promising, a balanced approach to hydration and nutrition remains the best strategy for long-term health. Consider discussing your personal bone health needs with a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your daily caffeine or tea consumption habits.
Further reading
For more information on the impact of daily habits, explore our latest Tea research section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ScienceAlert.
Live Poll
Do you believe daily beverage choices like tea or coffee impact your long-term bone health?
