Black tea contains a number of antioxidants, which are compounds that help the body fight free radicals (chemical by-products known to damage DNA). These antioxidants include quercetin, a substance said to combat inflammation and support healthyimmune function.

Here's a look at the science behind black tea's health effects:

1) Black Tea and Cardiovascular Health

To date, research on black tea's cardiovascular benefits has yielded mixed results. For instance, a ***9 review of nine previously published studies (including a total of nearly **5,**0 participants) concluded that drinking three cups of black or green tea daily reduced risk of stroke by *1 percent. However, a ***7 study of *1 adults (ages *5 and older) found that six months of black-tea consumption did not significantly influence any cardiovascular risk factors (such as inflammation and systolic blood pressure). Both the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine and the National Institutes of Health point to this study as evidence that black tea may have no impact on cardiovascular health.

2) Black Tea and Diabetes

In a laboratory study published in ***9, scientists discovered that compounds extracted from black tea were more effective at slowing the absorption of blood sugar than those extracted from green tea and oolong tea. Additionally, a ***9 population study of 1,**0 elderly adults found that long-term intake of black and/or green tea was associated with lower prevalence of diabetes.

3) Black Tea and Cancer Prevention

While some studies indicate that regular consumption of black tea may reduce cancer risk, others report no cancer-related benefits of black tea intake. Furthermore, some research suggests that black tea consumption may be significantly positively associated with increased risk of overall breast cancer and estrogen-receptor positive/progesterone-receptor positive breast tumors.

Drinking Black Tea for Health

Black tea consumption has not been proven to prevent or treat any health condition. Although black tea intake may offer certain health benefits, it's important to consult your doctor to determine which dose might be appropriate for you. In some individuals, high doses of caffeine may lead to a number of adverse effects (such as anxiety, increased heart rate and blood pressure, and the worsening of ulcer symptoms).