The health news sections were buzzing as were the tweets regarding a study linking hot tea with esophageal cancer.
The study focused on the temperature of the tea when drunk. Very hot tea could damage esophageal cells, providing a way for cancer to take hold. While the story focused on tea since that part of the hypothesis, the study did not distinguish whether it was just tea or any hot liquid.
The news also comes as a shock because we’ve associated so many health benefits with drinking tea including a decreased risk of heart disease and a reduction in risk of certain types of cancer. Very confusing for someone trying to make good choices. Which source is correct?
That is precisely the confusing thing about stories such as this one being reported. It isn’t the fact that they are reported, but rather how they are reported. If you look back to your days in science class, you know that a theory is based on proven tests, as in multiple experiments with the same conditions which all prove or disprove a hypothesis. One study does not make a theory. Yet, it is reported as such.
When viewing information like this, research your choices. Go to a reliable source like WebMD or MayoClinic. Ask your doctor. An informed decision is made with facts.
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