Tea consumption, lipid metabolism, and atherosclerosis

The use of tea is derived from the Far East and was introduced into Europe, where in some countries tea soon became a favorite drink. Tea accounts for about 43% of all caffeine consumption. Total world caffeine consumption in 1981 was estimated to be approximately 120,000 tons, equivalent to 70 mg a day for each human. There is evidence from in vitro and animal studies, as well as from human investigations, that tea and its main constituents can prevent atherosclerosis to a certain extent. Supplementing tea as beverage instead of coffee might react beneficially with other antiatherosclerotic strategies. Investigations on the hypolipidemic and antiatherosclerotic action of tea, and therefore flavonoid intake, are still in their infancy and further fundamental data from controlled trials are needed to evaluate possible positive effects of tea consumption to prevent or treat atherosclerosis. Brief information on the biological potential of caffeine and flavonoids, as well as on their possible beneficial effects on the atherosclerotic process is documented in this review.