Black Tea and Berries Support Healthy Aging: New Research Insights

Recent scientific studies suggest that increasing the intake of black tea, berries, citrus fruits, and apples may play a significant role in promoting healthier aging. A collaborative research effort involving Edith Cowan University, Queen's University Belfast, and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health analyzed data over a span of 24 years, including more than 86,000 participants. The findings indicate that foods rich in flavonoids—a group of plant compounds known for their health benefits—are associated with a reduced risk of age-related decline in physical and mental health.

Specifically, the study revealed that women with higher flavonoid consumption experienced a 15% lower risk of frailty, a 12% lower risk of impaired physical function, and a 12% lower likelihood of poor mental health compared to women with lower intake levels. Although men showed fewer associations, a higher flavonoid intake still correlated with decreased risk of mental health issues.

Flavonoids are renowned for their ability to combat oxidative stress and inflammation, support vascular health, and help maintain skeletal muscle mass—all crucial factors in aging well. Regularly consuming flavonoid-rich foods such as berries, apples, oranges, red wine, and tea may support healthier aging by reducing the chances of physical decline, frailty, and mental health deterioration. Notably, increasing the intake by just three servings of flavonoid-rich foods daily was linked to a 6% to 15% reduction in adverse aging outcomes.

Dr. Nicola Bondonno from Edith Cowan University emphasized that the goal of medical research extends beyond lifespan extension to ensuring quality of life. The research underscores that simple dietary modifications can have a considerable impact on healthy aging, opening pathways for public health strategies to promote longevity and well-being in older adults.

For more detailed information, the original study is published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-black-tea-berries-contribute-healthier.html