Balanced consumption of these drinks is associated with a lower risk of death from all causes, especially cardiovascular disease.
Keeping the body hydrated is essential for the body to function properly – and it’s not just water that counts. A new study published in shows that balanced consumption of water, coffee and tea is associated with a lower risk of death from all causes, especially cardiovascular diseases.
Researchers from China analyzed data from more than 182,000 adults from the UK Biobank, a study that assesses the health conditions of half a million people. The authors concluded that isolated consumption of coffee or tea is not as strongly associated with decreased mortality as combined consumption. “With some reservations, this is an interesting work, which reinforces that these drinks can contribute to hydration”disse to the nutrological Celso Cukier, of Einstein Israelite Hospital.
One of the limitations of the study is that the findings are observational, that is, they do not establish a cause and effect relationship. And as the results are based on participants’ questionnaire responses, important details may have been left out, such as how the drinks were prepared.
But, within the context of balance, there is evidence that both coffee and tea, especially green tea, are allies for cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of some types of cancer, among other benefits.
In addition to presenting a rich mixture of protective compounds, the duo helps to hydrate the body. “As our body is made up of approximately 65% of water, it is essential to replace the losses that occur daily, for example. diuresis, evacuation, sweating, breathing, among other means”Sugar list.
Vital reactions depend on the balance of fluids circulating through the body. When water leakage is greater than water gain, several health problems occur. The synthesis of all substances takes place in the aqueous environment, in addition, ensuring good water levels contributes to the transport of nutrients, thermal regulation and kidney, digestive, cardiovascular and pulmonary functions.
“Epidemiological studies show that adequate hydration is associated with a lower incidence of chronic diseases, being a marker of health and longevity”says nutritionist Valéria Machado, collaborator in research in the Lipids sector, Atherosclerosis and Vascular Biology of the Cardiology discipline at the Federal University of São Paulo (Unifesp).
It is worth remembering that water should always be your main drink, and the ideal is not to wait until you are thirsty to take your first sip — the guideline is that hydration occurs throughout the day. “I often joke that we are not a water reservoir, so we need to distribute it gradually”suggests Machado.
Although, generally, 2 liters per day is recommended, or somewhere between 30 and 35 ml per kg of weight, everything will depend on each person’s profile and routine. An athlete, for example, requires a greater amount because he tends to sweat more. “Remember that many foods contain water, especially fruits”highlights Cukier. It’s just not worth incorporating soft drinks and other sugary products into your bill. In fact, for tea and coffee, it is best not to sweeten them.
With the elderly, attention must also be doubled. This is because the thirst mechanism is less effective as the years go by, so older people do not feel the need to replace fluids. On the other hand, there are conditions, such as patients with kidney failure, who must control their intake, following medical advice.
Coffee and tea, allies of the arteries
Considered one of the most popular drinks in the world, coffee has been scrutinized for its health effects. Many of its attributes are related to caffeine: the substance has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions, actions that help protect the endothelium, the cellular tissue that covers blood vessels.
Coffee also offers polyphenols, such as chlorogenic acid, which also combat oxidative stress and protect the arteries. It also contains compounds involved in modulating blood glucose levels, hence the drink’s link to reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Regarding tea, studies mention those prepared with Camellia sinensis, raw material of green, black and white. Like coffee, the plant provides caffeine and phenolics. One of the highlights is epigallocatechin gallate or EGCG, a powerful antioxidant, with proven anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective properties.
It doesn’t hurt to emphasize that, even with so many benefits, exaggeration can cause negative impacts. Consumption must be balanced and the benefits are linked to a healthy lifestyle — that is, one that includes physical activity, quality sleep, stress management, among other good habits.
*By Regina Célia Pereira, from Agência Einstein
