Tea can Strengthen the Bones of Older Women, While Strong Coffee Weakens them

A recent study by Flinders University sheds new light on how two widely consumed beverages, coffee and tea, may affect bone health in older women. Published in the journal Nutrients, the study observed nearly 10,000 women aged 65 and older over a period of ten years to investigate whether regular consumption of coffee or tea is associated with changes in bone mineral density (BMD). BMD is a key marker for assessing the risk of osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis and the Dangers

Osteoporosis affects one in three women over the age of 50, making it one of the most common chronic diseases in older age. Men are also affected, albeit less frequently, especially in older age. The disease is characterized by a progressive loss of bone mass and a deterioration of bone structure. This makes the bones more porous and susceptible to fractures, even with minor stress or everyday falls.

Every year, there are millions of osteoporosis-related bone fractures worldwide, most commonly in the hip, spine, and wrist. These fractures are not only associated with acute pain, but can also have long-term consequences. Hip fractures in particular often lead to reduced mobility, loss of independence, and increased mortality in the following year. Osteoporosis is therefore not only an individual problem, but also a significant health and socioeconomic issue.

A key problem with osteoporosis is that it often goes unnoticed for a long time. The reduction in bone density is gradual and often remains symptom-free for years. Many people only receive their diagnosis after their first bone fracture. This so-called “silent disease” makes early prevention difficult and underscores the importance of education and prevention, especially for people with known risk factors.

The Modest but Significant Benefits of Tea for Bones

Since coffee and tea are part of everyday life for billions of people, researchers consider it essential to understand their long-term effects on bones. Previous findings have often been contradictory, and few studies have followed such a large group over an entire decade.

Researchers at Flinders University used information from the Osteoporotic Fractures Study, relying on repeated measurements of beverage intake and bone density in the hip and femoral neck. These areas are closely related to fracture risk. During the ten-year period, participants regularly reported how much coffee and tea they consumed. At the same time, bone density was measured using state-of-the-art imaging techniques.

The results showed that women who drank tea had a slightly higher overall BMD in the hip than those who did not drink tea. Although the improvement was small, it was statistically significant and may be important when considering the health of a large population. “Even small improvements in bone density can lead to fewer fractures in large groups,” says Enwu Liu, associate professor at the College of Medicine and Public Health.

Coffee Consumption and the Risks to Bone Density

The results for coffee were more varied. Moderate consumption of about two to three cups per day was not associated with any harm. However, consumption of more than five cups per day was associated with lower bone density, suggesting that very high coffee consumption may negatively affect bone strength. Women with higher alcohol consumption throughout their lives appeared to be particularly susceptible to the negative effects of coffee, while tea showed greater benefits in women with obesity.

Ryan Liu, co-author of the study, explains that tea is rich in catechins, compounds that can promote bone formation and slow bone loss. “In contrast, laboratory studies have shown that the caffeine content of coffee impairs calcium absorption and bone metabolism, although these effects are small and can be offset by adding milk,” says Ryan Liu of Flinders University.

Practical Implications for Aging Women

Associate Professor Enwu Liu notes that the research suggests that drinking tea daily may be a simple way to support bone health in older age. “While moderate coffee consumption appears to be safe, very high consumption may not be ideal, especially for women who drink alcohol,” he says.

The researchers emphasize that while the findings are statistically significant, the differences are not so great as to warrant a fundamental lifestyle change. “Our findings do not mean that you have to give up coffee or drink gallons of tea,” says Associate Professor Liu. “However, they suggest that moderate tea consumption may be a simple way to support bone health, and that very high coffee consumption may not be ideal, especially for women who drink alcohol.

While calcium and vitamin D remain the cornerstones of bone health, what’s in your cup may also play a role. For older women, enjoying a cup of tea each day may be more than just a comforting ritual; it could be a small step toward stronger bones,” he concludes.