Green Tea Linked to Lower Cholesterol Levels, Studies Show

Green tea may offer more than just a soothing sip—it could also help reduce harmful cholesterol levels, according to new scientific findings.

Rich in antioxidants such as flavanols and catechins, the popular green beverage has been found to have a positive effect on total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), commonly referred to as “bad” cholesterol.

While cholesterol is essential for cell health and hormone production, excess LDL can pose serious health risks. Elevated LDL levels can lead to the buildup of plaque in arteries—a condition known as atherosclerosis, which significantly increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Recent research has focused on the potential of plant-based compounds to mitigate these risks. Green tea, a natural source of flavonoids, is gaining attention for its possible cardiovascular benefits.

A comprehensive analysis published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition concluded that regular green tea consumption can significantly lower total and LDL cholesterol levels.

The review analyzed data from 13 studies, involving nearly 950 participants, and found consistent reductions in cholesterol among those who drank green tea or took green tea extract compared to control groups.

Similarly, a study in The Nutrition Journal supported these findings, reporting that green tea supplementation had beneficial effects on cholesterol in both healthy individuals and those who are overweight or obese.

However, the study noted no significant impact on triglyceride levels and recommended further long-term research to better understand the role of green tea in lipid metabolism.

HEART UK, a leading charity focused on cholesterol, has also endorsed the inclusion of flavanol-rich foods as part of a heart-healthy diet.

The organization recommends drinking two cups of green tea daily to harness its cholesterol-lowering potential.

In addition to green tea, the charity encourages consumption of other flavanol-packed foods such as berries, apples, grapes, pears, and nuts.

Black tea also contains these beneficial compounds and may support similar effects when consumed regularly.

HEART UK advises adopting a varied diet rich in plant-based foods—including fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, herbs, and spices—to maximize the benefits of polyphenols, a broader group of antioxidants that includes flavanols.

As more studies highlight the health advantages of green tea, experts suggest it could be a simple, natural addition to a balanced diet aimed at improving heart health.