Study Finds Tea Can Match Antioxidant Levels Found in Fruits and Vegetables

A recent study by the University of Pretoria has revealed that several commonly consumed teas, including black, oolong, and green varieties, contain antioxidant levels comparable to those found in recommended servings of fruits and vegetables.

According to SABC News, the research, led by Professor Zeno Apostolides from the university’s biochemistry department, found that just half a cup of these teas could deliver the same radical scavenging capability (RSC) as a 200mg vitamin C supplement.

The study analysed antioxidant levels in 15 non-herbal and 10 herbal teas readily available in supermarkets, along with a selection of fruits and vegetables. Researchers discovered that a single cup of black, oolong, or green tea provides RSC equivalent to four servings of fruit or 12 servings of vegetables.

RSC refers to a compound’s ability to neutralise harmful free radicals—unstable molecules linked to cell damage and aging. Antioxidants help reduce this damage by stabilising these molecules and preventing their negative effects on cellular structures.

Despite these benefits, Prof Apostolides warned that tea should not replace fruit and vegetables in a healthy diet.

“This doesn’t mean people should stop eating fresh produce. Tea can enhance your diet, but it shouldn’t be used as a substitute,” he said.

Apostolides emphasised the importance of antioxidants in combatting the damage caused by free radicals, which are naturally produced by the body during metabolism. These molecules live briefly but can harm DNA and trigger degenerative processes in cells.

While teas from the Camellia sinensis plant—such as green and oolong—topped the antioxidant rankings, South Africa’s rooibos tea came close.

“The teas from the Camellia sinensis plant contained significantly more RSC than herbal teas,” said Apostolides. “However, rooibos tea held its own, with one and a half cups matching the antioxidant power of a 200mg vitamin C tablet.”

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Sourced:Sowetan Live

Picture: Spectrum Health/Vitaobics