Men's health concerns grow as stress, heart disease and sleep deprivation rise
As stress levels rise among South African men – driven by demanding work environments, shift work and lifestyle pressures – research is increasingly turning attention to everyday dietary interventions that may support long-term health. One of the most promising homegrown contenders is Rooibos, a caffeine-free herbal infusion rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help support cardiometabolic health, stress resilience and better sleep quality.
South African men face a significant and growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among these conditions, while diabetes prevalence continues to rise sharply, particularly among men aged 40 and older. At the same time, lifestyle-related stress and chronic sleep deprivation – especially among shift workers in transport, healthcare, mining and security sectors – are increasingly recognised as key contributors to hormonal imbalance, elevated inflammation and long-term disease risk.
“Men are under sustained physiological stress, often without recognising the long-term impact,” says Prof Gerald Maarman, Research at Stellenbosch University. “We are seeing growing interest in everyday, accessible interventions that may help support the body’s natural resilience systems.”
Prof Gerald Maarman is a health sciences researcher at Stellenbosch University investigating the benefits of Rooibos.
Rooibos and the science of protective compounds
Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) is naturally caffeine-free and contains a unique profile of polyphenols, including aspalathin and nothofagin, which have been widely studied for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
A growing body of peer-reviewed research suggests Rooibos may help reduce oxidative stress and support cardiovascular and metabolic health markers. A systematic review published in Beverages (2024) found that Rooibos contains bioactive compounds with strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-hyperglycaemic properties, based on multiple human and experimental studies.
Other studies have shown improvements in oxidative stress markers and vascular function. Research from South African institutions, including Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) and Stellenbosch University (SU), has demonstrated that Rooibos consumption may support the body’s antioxidant defence systems and reduce biomarkers associated with cellular stress and inflammation.
“While Rooibos is not a medicine, the science is increasingly showing that it contains compounds that can support the body’s ability to manage oxidative stress and inflammation,” says Prof Maarman. “These are key biological processes linked to heart disease, diabetes and fatigue.”
Stress, cortisol and sleep
Although Rooibos does not directly “treat” stress hormones, its caffeine-free nature plays a meaningful role in stress regulation and sleep quality. Unlike coffee or black tea, Rooibos does not stimulate the central nervous system, making it a suitable alternative for evening consumption.
Chronic stress – often reflected in elevated cortisol levels – is strongly associated with poor sleep, insulin resistance and increased cardiovascular risk. In this context, replacing caffeine-containing beverages later in the day with Rooibos may support a calmer physiological state, particularly for men experiencing high work-related stress or irregular sleep cycles.
“Many men underestimate the impact of caffeine timing on sleep quality,” Prof Maarman explains. “Switching to Rooibos in the afternoon or evening can be a simple behavioural change that supports relaxation and recovery.”
Inflammation, heart health and diabetes risk
Chronic low-grade inflammation is a known driver of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Several studies have indicated that Rooibos polyphenols may help reduce oxidative stress pathways linked to inflammation and metabolic dysfunction.
Research published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology and other peer-reviewed journals has explored Rooibos’ potential cardioprotective effects, including improved lipid profiles and reduced oxidative damage in at-risk populations.
While evidence in humans is still emerging, findings consistently suggest Rooibos may act as a supportive dietary component within a broader healthy lifestyle.
A locally rooted wellness tool
As research continues to evolve, Rooibos is increasingly being recognised not only as a cultural staple, but also as a scientifically interesting functional beverage.
“For generations, Rooibos has been part of South African daily life,” says Prof Maarman. “What is exciting now is the growing scientific validation of what people have long experienced - its potential to support well-being in a natural, accessible way.”
“Small, consistent changes often deliver the most sustainable health benefits,” says Prof Maarman. “Rooibos is not a quick fix, but it can be a meaningful part of a broader wellness routine.”
