Both coffee and tea contain caffeine, and studies have shown that coffee and tea have potential antioxidant health benefits. A large observational study published in the June 2008 issue of Stroke (a journal of the American Heart Association) suggests that a high daily consumption of coffee or tea protects male smokers against cerebral infarction, one type of stroke.

Using data from a large cancer prevention study, researchers identified 26,556 male smokers from Finland aged 50-69 years old who had no history of stroke. Coffee and tea consumption was assessed using a questionnaire. The researchers found that, after adjusting for age and cardiovascular risk factors, increasing consumption of coffee and tea were statistically significantly linked to a decreasing risk of cerebral infarction. Compared to those who drank little or no coffee or tea, participants who drank 8 or more cups of coffee per day had a 23% lowered risk for cerebral infarction and participants who drank 2 or more cups of black tea per day had a 21% lower risk. The researchers found no associations between coffee or tea consumption and two other types of strokes called intracerebral hemorrhage and subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Previous studies of coffee and tea consumption in relation to stroke risk have shown conflicting results. While the findings of this study are promising for coffee and tea lovers, only male smokers were evaluated in this study - confirmation of these findings among women and non-smokers is still needed.