Tea is more than just a beverage; it’s a global tradition that many people can’t imagine their day without. From morning rituals to social gatherings, tea is a staple. However, many people, including those in Pakistan, prefer milk tea or leaf tea over green tea or coffee without considering the potential health effects.
Medical experts warn that excessive consumption of green tea, coffee, and milk tea can be harmful, but the use of milk and leafy tea poses specific risks to human health.
Here are some of the negative health effects associated with consuming tea made from leaves and milk:
1. Excessive Caffeine and Sleep Deprivation: Tea contains caffeine, which provides energy and alertness. However, too much tea, especially before bedtime, can disrupt your sleep patterns, leading to fatigue, memory issues, difficulty concentrating, obesity, and high blood sugar levels. Reducing tea intake is advisable for those experiencing sleep disturbances due to excessive caffeine.
2. Sugar and Lifestyle Disorders: It’s not just caffeine that can lead to lifestyle disorders and digestive issues; the refined sugar added to tea can be equally harmful. Excess sugar consumption is linked to various health problems.
3. Dehydration: Black tea with milk can lead to water loss from the body. Caffeine can cause water retention, leading to dehydration if consumed excessively. Reducing tea consumption, especially during the summer months, is essential to prevent dehydration. Starting the day with water is also recommended after hours of sleep when the body needs hydration.
4. Increased Acidity: Drinking tea, even green tea, on an empty stomach can increase stomach acidity, causing heartburn, indigestion, and frequent belching. It’s better to have solid food before drinking tea, waiting at least half an hour after breakfast.
5. Impaired Nutrient Absorption: Tea contains tannins, complex compounds that interfere with the absorption of iron, calcium, and other minerals from food. This can lead to long-term health issues like anemia. People with iron deficiency and tea enthusiasts should wait at least 30 to 40 minutes after meals to ensure proper nutrient absorption.
6. Headaches: While caffeine can help relieve headaches in moderation, excessive tea consumption can actually trigger headaches. Daily intake of 100 milligrams of caffeine can potentially lead to headaches, depending on an individual’s tolerance level.
7. Anxiety and Stress: Tea leaves naturally contain caffeine, and excessive caffeine consumption can result in anxiety, restlessness, and tension. Consuming less than 200 milligrams of caffeine per day is recommended to avoid increased anxiety in most individuals.
8. Tooth Decay: Daily tea consumption can increase the presence of harmful bacteria in the mouth, potentially leading to tooth decay. To minimize this risk, it’s advisable to include tea in your diet after breakfast rather than after dinner.
In conclusion, while tea is a beloved beverage worldwide, it’s essential to be aware of the potential health risks associated with excessive consumption, particularly when combined with milk and taken on an empty stomach. Moderation and mindful consumption can help individuals continue to enjoy tea without compromising their health.
