Drinking 'ancient' 2p tea helps clear the body of bad cholesterol

Adopting healthier lifestyle habits and maintaining a balanced diet are two significant steps you can take to safeguard your heart, particularly if you've been diagnosed with high cholesterol. This condition, often dubbed the 'silent killer' due to its symptomless nature, affects millions of Brits.

The issue presents very subtle warning signs and is typically confirmed through a blood test. If left unchecked, high cholesterol could lead to severe outcomes, including an elevated risk of heart attacks and strokes.

High cholesterol can affect anyone and can be triggered by various factors, some within your control and others not. Implementing a healthy diet and making substantial lifestyle modifications can greatly help in managing this condition.

Medical professionals may also recommend medication, such as statins, to help balance the levels of 'good' (HDL) and 'bad' (LDL) cholesterol. It's crucial to heed the advice of healthcare experts and take any prescribed medication.

Diet plays a pivotal role in eliminating excess low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol - the type that can cause plaque accumulation in the arteries. Making a few dietary swaps can significantly prevent further cholesterol build-up in the arteries, reports Surrey Live.

Some studies suggest that certain components may help in reducing cholesterol naturally, with compounds in green tea receiving considerable praise for their effects. A Medical News piece highlights green tea as an excellent option for lowering cholesterol, revealing it's packed with "catechins and other antioxidant compounds," known to decrease LDL and overall cholesterol.

The article pointed to a 2020 study where researchers delved into the impact of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a potent antioxidant found in green tea, across human subjects, animal tests, and in vitro experiments. In human trials, increased green tea intake was correlated with lower levels of LDL cholesterol.

Further backing comes from a 2011 entry featured in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association. This investigation credited the powerful catechins in green tea with creating a "significant" reduction in total and "bad" LDL cholesterol, although leaving "good" HDL cholesterol and triglycerides unaffected.

The researchers concluded: "The consumption of green tea catechins is associated with a statistically significant reduction in total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels; however, there was no significant effect on high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ['good' cholesterol] or triglyceride levels."

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In 2024, Harvard University's nutrition expert Teresa Fung further spoke about the benefits of green tea, dubbing it an "ancient drink" with a wealth of heart health benefits becuase of its catechin content. She recommended consuming three cups daily to maximise the potential health perks, which include diminishing the risk of heart complications, cancer, stabilising blood sugar levels, and promoting oral hygiene.

Fung also said: "There are green tea extract supplements, but it's more enjoyable to slow down and savour a cup". Aldi offers an affordable way to enjoy this healthy beverage, selling a box of Light and Delicate Pure Green Tea containing 40 bags for just 65p – that's less than 2p per cup. The supermarket also provides decaffeinated options and flavoured varieties - such as lemon or mint - for the same bargain price.

The NHS suggests significant lifestyle changes to lower cholesterol levels, including reducing fatty food intake, moderating alcohol consumption, increasing physical activity, and ceasing smoking (where applicable). For further information and help, visit the NHS website.

Doctors may prescribe statins to manage "bad" LDL cholesterol levels for those needing medical intervention. Your GP will assist in selecting the most suitable statin based on your health background and cholesterol readings.

While certain foods can help the body reduce cholesterol, it's crucial to emphasise that no single food or dietary change can rival the efficacy of statin medications in lowering cholesterol. Nonetheless, some foods can help decrease cholesterol levels through lifestyle adjustments and may be incorporated into a broader approach to heart health.