HealthHot tea danger: Research links high temperatures to cancer risk

Hot tea danger: Research links high temperatures to cancer risk

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

14 July 2024 15:03

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

Scientists from various countries have repeatedly analysed 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.

Tea also has unique taste qualities for many people. There are many variants of this beverage on the market, and tea lovers regularly choose different flavours.

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

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

A long-term study carried out from 2004 to 2017 involved data from over 50,000 people aged 40 to 75. Led by Dr. Farhad Islami from the American Cancer Society, the research team recorded 317 new cases of oesophageal cancer. One issue significantly impacts its development.

According to the lead author of the study, drinking hot water is associated with a higher risk of oesophageal 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 oesophageal cancer by up to 90%. Dr Farhad Islami emphasises 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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