Who Should Limit Tea Intake? Gastroenterologist Explains How It Can Affect Your Health

For millions of Indians, a hot cup of tea is an important part of the daily routine. However, tea may not be suitable for everyone, especially people with certain health conditions.

While moderate tea consumption can be part of a balanced diet, some individuals may need to be more careful about the quantity and timing of their intake.

Experts say that people who experience digestive problems, caffeine sensitivity or iron deficiency may need to monitor their tea intake.

Individual responses can vary, so people should pay attention to symptoms that appear after drinking tea and adjust their consumption accordingly.

Tea contains caffeine and tannins, which can affect the body in different ways. Excessive consumption may trigger acidity or digestive discomfort in some people.

Adding large amounts of sugar or consuming tea frequently throughout the day may also increase overall calorie and caffeine intake.

Those dealing with gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, should pay attention to whether tea worsens symptoms such as heartburn or acid reflux. Caffeinated beverages may aggravate symptoms in some people, particularly when consumed in large quantities or close to bedtime.

Pregnant women should also keep track of their caffeine consumption. Caffeine can cross the placenta, and health experts recommend limiting caffeine during pregnancy.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists recommends keeping caffeine intake below 200 mg per day during pregnancy.

People with iron deficiency should be careful about when they drink tea. Compounds in tea can reduce the absorption of non-heme iron, particularly when tea is consumed with meals. This is especially relevant for people who already have low iron levels or are taking iron supplements.

It may be better to keep tea separate from meals and iron supplements to reduce its effect on iron absorption.

People experiencing anxiety, restlessness or sleep problems after caffeinated tea may benefit from reducing their intake.

Caffeine-sensitive people may also avoid tea in the evening to prevent sleep disruption. Those with medical conditions should consult a healthcare professional about their tea intake.

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