Avoid Drinking Tea on Empty Stomach

Avoid Drinking Tea on an Empty Stomach :-

Tea is one of the most popular beverages in the world, with many health benefits and varieties to choose from. However, drinking tea on an empty stomach may not be the best idea, as it can cause some unpleasant side effects and interfere with your nutrient absorption. Here are some reasons why you should avoid drinking tea on an empty stomach and what you can do instead.

Tea can cause nausea and indigestion :- 

One of the main side effects of drinking tea on an empty stomach is nausea and indigestion. This is because tea contains tannins, which are plant compounds that can bind to proteins and other molecules in your stomach and interfere with your digestion1. Tannins can also stimulate the production of stomach acid, which can cause acid reflux and heartburn2.

To prevent this, you should always drink tea with or after a meal, preferably one that contains some protein and fat to buffer the effects of tannins. You can also opt for herbal teas that are lower in tannins, such as chamomile, peppermint, or ginger3.

Tea can reduce iron absorption

Another reason to avoid drinking tea on an empty stomach is that it can reduce your iron absorption from food. Iron is an essential mineral that helps transport oxygen throughout your body and supports your immune system. However, tea tannins can bind to iron in plant-based foods, such as beans, lentils, spinach, and tofu, and make it less available for absorption in your intestines.

This can lead to iron deficiency, which can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and increased susceptibility to infections. Iron deficiency is especially common among women, children, vegans, and vegetarians.

To avoid this, you should drink tea at least one hour before or two hours after eating foods that contain iron. You can also increase your iron absorption by consuming foods that are rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, peppers, and broccoli. Alternatively, you can choose teas that are lower in tannins, such as white or green teas.

Tea can increase anxiety and insomnia :-

A final reason to avoid drinking tea on an empty stomach is that it can increase your anxiety and insomnia. This is because tea contains caffeine, which is a stimulant that can boost your alertness, mood, and energy levels. However, too much caffeine can also cause nervousness, jitteriness, restlessness, and difficulty sleeping.

The amount of caffeine in tea varies depending on the type and brewing method, but generally ranges from 11 to 61 mg per cup (240 ml). For comparison, a cup of coffee contains about 95 mg of caffeine. The effects of caffeine depend on your individual sensitivity and tolerance, but most people can safely consume up to 200 mg of caffeine per day without adverse effects.

To avoid this, you should limit your tea intake to 3 or 4 cups (710–950 ml) per day and avoid drinking tea late in the day or before bed. You can also choose decaffeinated or herbal teas that are naturally caffeine-free.

Conclusion

Tea is a delicious and healthy drink that can offer many benefits for your well-being. However, drinking tea on an empty stomach may not be the best idea, as it can cause nausea, indigestion, reduced iron absorption, anxiety, and insomnia. To enjoy your tea without these side effects, you should drink it with or after a meal, choose teas that are lower in tannins and caffeine, and limit your intake to a moderate amount per day. By following these tips, you can make the most of your tea experience.