Scientific research indicates that drinking tea can mitigate the harm caused by smoking, as components like tea polyphenols and vitamin C in tea leaves degrade harmful substances found in cigarettes. Smokers often prefer tea, especially green tea, for scientifically valid reasons.
1. It may reduce the likelihood of smoking-induced cancer.
Tea has anti-cancer properties; its polyphenols inhibit free radical release and suppress cancer cell proliferation. Free radicals are harmful byproducts of oxygen metabolism, present in nearly every cell, acting as a hidden threat and "time bomb."
Research shows free radicals contribute to genetic mutations and cancer. Normally, the body maintains a balance between free radical production and elimination. Smoking disrupts this balance, increasing cancer risk. Tea catechins are potent antioxidants and free radical inhibitors, counteracting smoking-related tumor formation. Oolong tea polyphenols are particularly effective in scavenging superoxide free radicals.
Studies confirm tea can block nitrosamine synthesis in the body. Tea polyphenols bind to carcinogens, breaking them down and reducing their activity, thereby inhibiting cancer cell growth. Oolong tea leaves are rich in anti-cancer compounds at concentrations high enough to be effective in humans.
2. It helps alleviate radiation pollution caused by smoking.
A person smoking 30 cigarettes daily receives radiation equivalent to 300 chest X-rays annually. Tea prevents radioactive substances from penetrating bone marrow and accelerates the excretion of strontium-90 and cobalt-60. Catechins and lipopolysaccharides in tea reduce radiation damage and protect hematopoietic function. Clinical trials show tea tablets are 90% effective in treating mild radiation sickness.
3. It may prevent smoking-related cataracts.
Smoking is a major threat to eye health, increasing cataract risk. Heavy smokers (20+ cigarettes daily) are twice as likely to develop cataracts as non-smokers. Tea consumption prevents cataracts by counteracting oxidative stress that damages the eye lens. Tea polyphenols produce antioxidants that neutralize free radicals.
Cataract risk correlates with low plasma beta-carotene levels. Tea contains far more beta-carotene than vegetables or fruits, protecting against cataracts, cancer, and nicotine toxicity. Drinking tea benefits smokers' vision.
4. It replenishes vitamin C depleted by smoking.
Nicotine triggers hormone release that constricts blood vessels, impairing circulation, reducing oxygen supply, and raising blood pressure. Smoking accelerates aging and depletes vitamin C. Tea, especially green tea, is rich in vitamin C, with an 80% extraction rate in brewing. Even at 90°C, tea retains most vitamin C. Regular tea drinking, particularly oolong tea, compensates for smoking-induced vitamin C deficiency, maintaining free radical balance and boosting immunity. Oolong tea also strengthens blood vessels.