Tea
From the YapSpan Longevity Wiki · Updated 2026-10-01
Tea is a drink brewed from the processed leaves of the tea plant, Camellia sinensis. Green tea is made from leaves that are not fermented, while black tea is made from fully oxidised leaves, and oolong and white teas fall between them. Tea contains caffeine, usually less than coffee, and polyphenols such as catechins. Herbal infusions are made from other plants and are not tea in this sense.
A 2024 meta-analysis (a study that pools the results of earlier studies) of 38 studies with 1,956,549 participants found that the highest tea intake was associated with 10% lower all-cause mortality (death from any cause) than the lowest [1]. The greatest reduction was seen at about 2 cups a day [1].
- The highest tea intake was associated with 10% lower all-cause mortality than the lowest across 38 studies [1].
- High versus low tea intake was associated with 14% lower cardiovascular mortality [1].
- The greatest reduction in all-cause mortality was at about 2 cups a day [1].
- Each extra daily cup was associated with only about 1.5% lower all-cause mortality in a 2020 review that rated the strength of the evidence low [2].
- Both green and black tea were associated with lower all-cause mortality, green tea somewhat more strongly [3].
Related deep dives and quizzes
- Deep dive: The 7 things to know about coffee, tea, and energy drinks
- Quiz: Diet quiz
- Charts: What Matters charts
- Quizzes: All quizzes
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YapSpan estimates are for reflection and entertainment only. They are not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a prediction of any individual outcome. Check with a doctor before making any medical decision.