Gut Microbiome Health
Tea and gut health — polyphenol prebiotics promote beneficial bacteria and microbiome diversity.
Quick Facts
- Evidence Level
- Moderate
Description
Tea polyphenols act as prebiotics, selectively promoting beneficial gut bacteria (Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus) while inhibiting harmful species (Clostridium, E. coli). Unabsorbed catechins and thearubigins reach the colon where they are metabolized by gut bacteria into bioactive metabolites. Pu-erh and dark teas, with their unique microbially fermented polyphenol profiles, show the most pronounced microbiome effects. Regular tea consumption has been linked to greater gut microbial diversity, a marker of overall health.