Love Your Daily Chai? Here’s When Tea May Not Be Right For You

For millions of Indians, a hot cup of tea is an essential part of the daily routine. While moderate consumption can fit into a balanced diet, tea may not suit everyone, particularly people with certain health conditions or caffeine sensitivity.

Tea contains caffeine and tannins, which can affect the body in different ways.

Drinking large amounts may cause acidity, digestive discomfort, restlessness or sleep problems in some people. Adding too much sugar can increase overall calorie intake.

People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) should monitor whether tea worsens symptoms such as heartburn or acid reflux.

Caffeinated drinks may aggravate these symptoms in some individuals, especially when consumed in large quantities or close to bedtime.

Pregnant women should keep track of their caffeine intake.

Caffeine crosses the placenta, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists recommends limiting caffeine to less than 200 mg a day during pregnancy.

Tea timing is particularly important for people with iron deficiency. Certain compounds in tea can reduce the absorption of non-haem iron, especially when tea is consumed with meals. This can be more relevant for people with low iron levels or those taking iron supplements.

Keeping tea separate from meals and iron supplements may help reduce its effect on iron absorption.

People who experience anxiety, restlessness or disrupted sleep after drinking caffeinated tea may need to reduce their intake. Those who are sensitive to caffeine may find it helpful to avoid tea later in the day.

Individual responses to tea can vary. Paying attention to symptoms and adjusting the quantity and timing of consumption can help.

People with existing medical conditions or concerns about caffeine or iron absorption should seek advice from a healthcare professional.

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