We know that both tea and milk are good for us. Not only are they refreshing, but they provide loads of health benefits. However, did you know that tea and milk have positive effects on your bone health? This raises the question: which drink is better for bone health?

Truth is, neither tea nor milk is “better” for bone health. Both drinks benefit our bones in different ways. For instance, tea contains natural antioxidants that combat free radicals. As our cells work, they create harmful substances called free radicals, which build up over time and can cause oxidative stress. Research has shown that people who drink tea regularly have higher bone density, meaning their bones are stronger.

Meanwhile, milk contains numerous substances which help strengthen our bones, including calcium, vitamin D, protein, phosphorus. Studies show that adults who drank milk as part of their diet had small increases in bone density, especially in the hip and lower spine.

However, drinking milk can’t drastically change bone density throughout the body. The same can be said about tea. Rather, incorporating them into a healthy lifestyle is key to good bone health.

Bottom line: Tea helps protect your bones, while milk helps build them—so there’s room for both in a bone-healthy diet.

By Diane Alavie, BSc. Phm.