Green tea cuts depression in elderly

Drinking four or more cups of green tea on a regular basis lowers the risk of developing depression among elderly men and women, a new study finds.

Previous studies had linked the consumption of green tea to various health benefits including reduced psychological distress.

According to the study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, drinking green tea lowers the risk of depression in men and women aged over 70 by 44 percent.

Black and oolong tea or coffee, however, was not effective in reducing depressive symptoms in these individuals.

Theanine, an amino acid commonly found in green tea, accounts for the tranquilizing effects of the tea on the brain, the study suggests.

Further studies are needed before scientists can urge seniors to drink more green tea to ward off depressive symptoms.