Seniors in Zanesville, OH, have a spectrum of soothing and aromatic teas to support heart health, like classic black and green tea, and more healing options, such as hibiscus, chamomile, rooibos, hawthorn berry, ginkgo, and ginseng. These anti-inflammatory teas support senior heart health by aiding stress reduction, blood pressure regulation, and blood circulation.
Studies also show that the best tea for heart health, like black tea, can lower blood pressure and lessen the risk of future cardiac events, according to UCLA Health. Of course, teas should be seen as a supplement to a doctor-approved wellness plan that includes diet adjustments and exercise.
Learn more about heart-healthy drinks for seniors, including natural heart remedies like mindful tea-drinking for circulation support.
Did you know that green and black tea come from the same plant, Camellia Sinensis? These teas are just processed differently, yet both have been studied for their positive impact on heart health.
A study in the National Library of Medicine reveals a link between the Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) catechins found in green tea with the following outcomes:
These improvements help lower cardiovascular risk for seniors.
Black tea is a fermented tea with high concentrations of theaflavins and thearubigins. These natural compounds can help lower LDL cholesterol by preventing the oxidation process. LDLs are the "bad" type of cholesterol that leads to arterial buildup or hardening.
Like green tea, black tea also supports endothelial function (blood vessel lining) by stimulating nitric oxide (NO) production. This improves blood flow by widening the blood vessels.
Hibiscus is both delicious and heart-healthy! Known for its tart flavor profile and deep red shade, it can be enjoyed as a hot tea or a refreshing iced tea on a hot Ohio summer day.
According to data from Very Well Mind, Hibiscus can lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure with the help of powerful antioxidants and ACE inhibitors.
Angiotensin-converting enzymes (ACEs) are proteins that constrict blood vessels. Hibiscus tea can block ACE activity, helping blood vessels relax.
Stress has a powerful impact on senior heart health, making calming teas like chamomile a vital part of a heart-healthy diet. Of all the teas, chamomile is most recognized for its calming properties. It's a popular tea for calming the nervous system and promoting sleep, two factors that maintain good blood pressure levels in seniors.
Rooibos is a caffeine-free red tea from South Africa that seniors can drink before bed. It's packed with antioxidants like aspalathin, which helps protect seniors' cardiovascular health against the type of oxidative stress that naturally increases with age.
Seniors on a heart health journey can also incorporate more herbal tea infusions, like hawthorn berry. This herb can help dilate (widen) blood vessels to improve circulation. Smoother blood flow puts less strain on the heart.
Ginger is best known for its anti-inflammatory properties and positive effects on the gut. This herb also helps open blood vessels and may prevent blood platelets from sticking together, acting as a natural blood thinner to reduce the risk of clots.
Ginkgo leaf is another tea herb that can direct blood flow to the brain and heart. Ginseng is a natural-occurring adaptogen that helps manage stress and increase seniors' resilience to various stressors, from emotional to environmental, to boost cardiovascular health.
Turning tea-drinking into an intentional process promotes stress reduction and relaxation, which further supports cardiovascular wellness by lowering the heart rate and reducing cortisol levels.
Preparing and enjoying tea is a sensory process. Seniors can feel an even deeper sense of relaxation by taking in the aromas and even the sound of the tea kettle boiling. Pouring tea releases even more aromas; breathing in steam can also relieve sinus pressure, as well.
Beyond smell and sound, explore other senses, like the feeling of a warm teacup on a chilly morning. Promote relaxation by focusing on the color of the tea. Really savor the taste of the tea and try to identify the various herbs.
Practice intentional deep breathing while enjoying tea for heart health. Inhale deeply through the nose, using the chest and abdomen, then slowly exhale through the mouth. This type of rhythmic breathing signals the brain to relax the cardiovascular system.
Regarding tea, one of the biggest concerns for seniors is caffeine, since it's a stimulant that can increase heart rate. Instead, seniors can opt for decaffeinated versions of green and black tea. There are also naturally caffeine-free herbal teas.
Another important consideration for seniors is nutrient absorption. Tea contains tannin compounds, which can slow down plant-based iron absorption. To avoid an iron deficiency, seniors should enjoy tea between meals.
Seniors taking medications should consult with a doctor before drinking certain teas. For example, increasing the amount of teas with natural blood-thinning properties can possibly interfere with blood-thinning medications. While effects are mild, it's still wise to speak with a doctor as age-related health concerns progress.
Knowledge is power! Research the benefits of the best tea for heart health and discuss the benefits (and best practices) with a doctor. Take it easy on the heart, and engage in deep breathing and mindfulness to promote stress reduction.
The compassionate team at Clay Gardens Place Assisted Living can help by taking care of meals, housekeeping, daily assistance, and more stressors that contribute to cardiovascular strain. Our community is also designed to foster social wellness to boost emotional resilience and promote purpose.
Contact us today to discuss your goals for stress-free senior living.