Tea, a heart protector: three cups a day can prevent cardiac problems, say experts

"Evidence is growing that three to four cups of black tea each day is good not only for general health, but also for cardiovascular health. Drinking just three cups of tea a day can protect against heart attacks and strokes, claim researchers. A wide-ranging review of studies has concluded that regular consumption can reduce the risk of heart problems by 11 per cent. Experts say green tea and black tea - with or without milk - can be equally beneficial. The drink cuts the build-up of plaque in the arteries - a combination of dangerous fat and cholesterol. The review by researchers at the University of Western Australia says the benefits of tea are largely due to flavonoids, antioxidant ingredients that counteract cardiovascular disease. One cup provides 150-200mg of flavonoids. In terms of the delivery of antioxidants, two cups are equivalent to five portions of vegetables. The review, published in the journal Molecular Aspects of Medicine, also found the flavonoid content of regular tea is equal to that of green tea"