In our top stories today, are you a coffee or tea drinker? A new study might make you think twice about your next cup. We’ll also discuss some of the hidden dangers in black plastic and, finally, how nature walks boost your mental health. Welcome to Health Channel News.
First, a new study in the Daily Mail suggests that drinking four or more cups of coffee a day could raise your risk of stroke. Meanwhile, drinking the same amount of tea might actually lower that risk. Researchers looked at over 25,000 people from 32 different countries. They found that those who drank four or more cups of coffee had a 37% higher risk of stroke. On the other hand, those who drank tea had a 19% lower risk. This research was published in the International Journal of Stroke and gathered participants from countries like the UK and Canada. Most of the participants were men, and many were already at risk of stroke due to factors like high blood pressure and being overweight.
One of the researchers explained that coffee drinkers tend to have higher heart rates and blood pressure, which can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of stroke over time. The lead researcher stated that caffeine, especially in large amounts, increases adrenaline, which raises heart rate and blood pressure. Over time, this can harm the blood vessels in the brain, making a stroke more likely. In contrast, the compounds in tea can help reduce inflammation, which protects against strokes. However, adding milk to tea might block some of these helpful antioxidants.
The study does have limitations. Many lifestyle factors were impossible to account for, such as cultural differences in coffee and tea consumption. For example, participants from China and South Asia, where tea is more popular, could have influenced the results. The study concluded that high coffee consumption was associated with higher odds of stroke, while low to moderate coffee intake had no such association. Tea consumption, on the other hand, was linked to lower odds of stroke. Individuals with other stroke risk factors should consider avoiding high coffee consumption.
Next, CTV News has reported on a study showing that black plastic used in common household products may be more harmful than we thought. Items like kitchen utensils, takeout containers, and even children’s toys could contain dangerous flame retardants. Products like spatulas and spoons have been found to contain high levels of these chemicals. A representative from Toxic-Free Futures stated that when harmful chemicals like flame retardants are allowed in products like electronics, they can be recycled and unintentionally contaminate other products downstream.
These flame retardants are banned in many places due to their link to cancer, developmental issues, and immune system damage. However, the study found them in 70% of the black plastic samples tested. Experts are concerned that the chemicals could leach into food or get into children’s mouths. While flame retardants are essential for safety in electronics, experts argue they shouldn’t end up in everyday products like toys or utensils. The article recommends avoiding black plastic for anything that touches food or goes in the mouth. Alternatives like stainless steel or silicone kitchen utensils and glass food containers are safer options.
Finally, a simple way to improve your mental health—spending time in nature. Recent studies highlight how outdoor activities boost overall wellbeing. An article in The Guardian explores the mental health benefits of nature. For example, a study from Wales followed over 2 million people and found that the closer you live to nature, the lower your chances of having mental health issues. Certain aspects of nature, such as the color of plants, the smell of pine trees, and the presence of water, have unique effects on our brains.
Researchers say green spaces help us relax and improve focus. This phenomenon, known as Attention Restoration Theory, suggests that nature allows us to switch from everyday stress to a more peaceful, restorative state. Spending at least 20 minutes in the woods can have immediate benefits, while six hours among trees can boost mental health for days. Green and blue spaces offer the greatest benefits, with smells like pine reducing stress and boosting mood. For those with access to water, cold water swimming has been shown to reduce stress hormones and improve mood for hours afterward. The takeaway is clear: daily interaction with nature could significantly improve mental health.
Those were our top stories for today. As always, thank you so much for joining us on Health Channel News.