Who should avoid tea, and how to drink it safely
Tea can harm some people, including those with acid reflux, iron deficiency or anxiety, and pregnant women are advised to cut down.
For most Indian households, the day begins with a cup of hot tea. For some people, however, drinking tea can be harmful, and it is important to know the health risks.
Tea contains tannin, which gives it a dark colour and a strong taste. Tannin gives instant energy, but drowsiness can follow after a while. Tannin is an antioxidant, yet taking it in large quantities can trouble the gastric barrier, the layer that protects the stomach. This can cause acidity or heartburn.
Adding milk and sugar to tea raises its calorie and sugar content. This can affect insulin levels.
Tea should be avoided in some medical conditions. People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), especially severe cases, should not drink tea. Pregnant women should also keep their tea intake low, because the caffeine in it can reach the baby through the placenta.
People who are iron deficient are advised to cut down on tea or give it up entirely. Those with anxiety or panic attacks should not drink tea with a high caffeine content.
The right way to drink tea has also been discussed. Even without any medical problem, people are advised to avoid more than two cups a day. For good sleep at night, tea should not be had after 5 pm. Refined sugar in tea should also be avoided.
Drinking tea on an empty stomach is described as harmful for gut health. On waking up, one should drink lukewarm water, have a light breakfast and take tea forty minutes later.
Tea should never be had with a heavy meal, as it can hinder the body's absorption of iron, zinc and protein. People are advised to avoid tea for 45 minutes before and 45 minutes after a meal.
