Drinking Green Tea Protects Men's Mental Health as They Age

A new scientific study suggests that regularly drinking green tea might do more than just hydrate you—it could help protect your mental health as you grow older.

Published in the European Journal of Nutrition, the study followed middle-aged and older men and found that those who drank green tea consistently had a significantly lower risk of depression. But that’s not all—green tea also appeared to improve some key physical health markers, like body weight and testosterone levels.

What Did the Study Look At?

Researchers examined the long-term green tea drinking habits of a large group of men aged 40 and above. They wanted to see if this traditional beverage, widely consumed in many Asian countries, had any measurable impact on mood, weight, and hormone levels over time.

They collected data over several years, taking into account how much green tea participants drank and analyzing blood tests, body mass index (BMI), and mental health questionnaires.

The Results: Green Tea Drinkers Fared Better

The men who consumed more green tea (especially 2 or more cups a day) had:

• Lower risk of depression
• Lower BMI (a sign of healthier weight)
• Higher testosterone levels, which tend to decline with age

These benefits were strongest in those who had been drinking green tea consistently over the long term.

Why Might Green Tea Help?

Green tea contains several bioactive compounds—like L-theanine, catechins, and EGCG—that have been linked to reduced stress, inflammation, and brain aging. L-theanine, in particular, is known for promoting calmness without causing drowsiness.

Testosterone and mood are also closely connected. The boost in testosterone seen in regular green tea drinkers may play a role in their improved mental well-being.

Should You Start Drinking Green Tea?

If you're middle-aged or older, drinking green tea daily may be a simple and natural way to support both your mental and physical health. It’s safe for most people, low in calories, and packed with antioxidants.

That said, green tea isn't a magic bullet. It works best as part of a healthy lifestyle—including regular exercise, nutritious eating, and good sleep.

Takeaway: A Small Habit With Big Potential

One or two cups of green tea a day might not seem like much—but over time, it could make a meaningful difference in how you feel, think, and age.

As the researchers put it: in the long run, choosing green tea may support not just a healthier body, but a healthier mind.

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This article based on the next study.