Sip on this: Tea is not just good, it's good for you

Tea has long been heralded for its antioxidant content that promotes heart health and may reduce cancer risk, but new research suggests that the drink — black tea, in particular  — may also help control blood sugar. Studies from different countries suggest that a lifetime consumption of at least two to four cups of tea per day reduces the incidence of type 2 diabetes.

Dr. Jo Ann Carson, professor of clinical nutrition at UT Southwestern Medical Center, said that while the scientific evidence on tea’s health benefits is limited, all teas  — green, white, black and oolong — can be part of a healthy diet.

But what if you prefer the ice-cold, sugar-laden tea popular in the South? 

Dr. Carson says you have two choices: Learn to enjoy iced tea with little or no sugar, or drink sugared iced tea in moderation, generally once a day or less.

Visit www.utsouthwestern.org/nutrition to learn more about UT Southwestern’s clinical services in nutrition.

November in National Diabetes Awareness Month.

Media Contact: Kristen Holland Shear