Intracerebral hemorrhage happens when a blood vessel bursts and bleeds inside the brain. About 13 percent of strokes are hemorrhagic.

Participants in the study were 45 to 74 years old, almost evenly divided in gender, and were free from cancer and cardiovascular disease. During the 13 years of follow-up, researchers reviewed the participants' hospital medical records and death certificates, collecting data about heart disease, strokes and causes of death. They adjusted their findings to account for age, sex and lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol, weight, diet and exercise.

Tea and coffee are the most popular drinks in the world after water, which suggests that these results may also apply in America and other countries, the researchers said.

It's unclear how green tea affects stroke risks. A compound group known as catechins may provide some protection, according to the researchers.

Catechins have an antioxidant anti-inflammatory effect, increasing plasma antioxidant capacity and anti-thrombogenic effects.