Drinking Tea and Coffee Regularly May Help Prevent Stroke, Cancer, and Other Chronic Diseases

Research has shown that drinking tea or coffee on a regular basis can be an effective way to reduce the risk of cancer, stroke, and several chronic health conditions.

Stroke and cancer are currently among the leading causes of illness and death worldwide. In the past, these diseases were mostly associated with older adults. However, they are now appearing more frequently among younger people due to lifestyle factors. To lower the risks, doctors recommend maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and adopting a balanced lifestyle. Interestingly, incorporating tea and coffee into your daily routine is also considered a practical preventive measure.

What makes this even more remarkable is that both tea and coffee are widely cultivated in Vietnam. Tea leaves and coffee beans are brewed into beverages that have become deeply embedded in the nation’s culture. Traditionally, green tea has been a popular drink among middle-aged and elderly people, often enjoyed during casual gatherings. Meanwhile, coffee is favored by younger generations, especially office workers, who rely on its energizing effects to stay alert and start their day productively.

In terms of cost, coffee is generally priced between 10,000 and 40,000 VND per cup, while green tea is more affordable at around 2,000 to 5,000 VND per glass, depending on quality and location. These accessible prices make tea and coffee everyday staples across different social groups.

Health Benefits of Tea and Coffee

1. Rich in Antioxidants

Both tea and coffee are loaded with antioxidants—compounds that protect the body from the damaging effects of free radicals. Antioxidants help slow down cellular aging and reduce the risk of chronic inflammation, which is linked to many diseases. For Western diets, coffee is actually the largest source of antioxidants. Tea, especially green tea, is also a powerful antioxidant-rich beverage. Regularly consuming either drink provides your body with an extra layer of protection.

2. Reduces Risk of Stroke

Studies suggest that drinking tea and coffee can help lower the risk of stroke. Tea prevents blood clots from forming, which are a major cause of strokes. Research has also found that coffee drinkers may have up to a 20% lower risk of experiencing a stroke compared to non-drinkers. This protective effect is attributed to bioactive compounds in coffee that improve blood vessel function and circulation.

3. Lowers Cancer Risk

Coffee has been linked to a reduced risk of liver and colorectal cancers, two of the most common types worldwide. Data shows that regular coffee drinkers may have up to a 40% lower risk of liver cancer and around a 15% lower risk of colorectal cancer. Similarly, polyphenols found in tea—especially green tea—are known to inhibit cancer cell growth and protect DNA from damage. These compounds may also play a role in lowering the chances of developing other cancers, including breast and prostate cancer.

4. Supports Weight Management

Tea, particularly green tea, has been shown to boost metabolism, which is key for weight loss and maintenance. Drinking more than three cups of green tea a day can help burn approximately 80 extra calories. Coffee, too, has metabolism-enhancing effects, increasing calorie burn by up to 11%. For people who exercise, drinking coffee beforehand may enhance performance and accelerate fat burning.

5. Improves Focus and Mental Clarity

If you often feel distracted or sluggish, a cup of coffee can sharpen your focus almost instantly. The high caffeine content blocks adenosine, a neurotransmitter that promotes sleepiness. This allows other neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine to work more effectively, boosting alertness, concentration, and even short-term memory.

Tea also supports focus, but in a gentler way. Its combination of caffeine and the amino acid L-theanine produces a calm yet alert state, helping drinkers stay concentrated without the jittery side effects that coffee sometimes causes.

6. Additional Health Benefits

• Memory and brain health: Regular consumption of tea and coffee may help lower the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

• Heart health: Some studies show that moderate coffee consumption can reduce the risk of heart failure, while green tea has been linked to lower cholesterol levels.

• Mood booster: Caffeine stimulates the release of dopamine, often called the “feel-good hormone,” which can improve mood and reduce the likelihood of depression.

Things to Keep in Mind

While tea and coffee offer many benefits, they should be consumed in moderation. Overconsumption may lead to unwanted side effects. Here are a few important reminders:

• If you are sensitive to caffeine: Coffee contains about three times more caffeine than tea, which may cause restlessness, anxiety, or difficulty sleeping.

• During pregnancy: It’s best to limit coffee intake to one small cup a day, as high caffeine consumption may affect pregnancy health.

• Irregular heartbeat: People with heart rhythm issues should be cautious, as caffeine may accelerate heart rate.

• Empty stomach: Drinking tea or coffee without eating can cause nausea due to tannins, which may irritate the stomach lining.

Conclusion

Tea and coffee are more than just daily beverages—they are cultural traditions, social connectors, and natural sources of health-promoting compounds. When consumed moderately, both drinks can support your body in preventing chronic illnesses such as stroke, cancer, and memory-related conditions. They also help with weight management, mental alertness, and overall well-being.

By making tea or coffee a mindful part of your daily routine—alongside balanced nutrition, exercise, and healthy habits—you can enjoy not only their comforting flavors but also their long-term protective effects on your health.