Tea lovers often enjoy multiple cups of tea throughout the day, especially to start their morning and relieve fatigue in the evening. Strong tea, commonly preferred in most Indian households, is made by boiling it for a long time. However, did you know that this method of making strong tea can be harmful to your health? Recently, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) issued a warning to tea lovers, stating that excessive consumption of milk tea can interfere with the absorption of iron in the body. Not only that, drinking over-boiled tea can also negatively affect the liver and heart. Let’s take a look at the health risks associated with drinking strong milk tea.
Health Risks of Drinking Over-Boiled Strong Tea:
- High Blood Pressure:
Boiling tea for too long or reheating it multiple times increases the amount of tannin in the tea, which can raise blood pressure. This can lead to hypertension in individuals who consume it regularly. - Interferes with Iron and Calcium Absorption:
The tannins in strong tea hinder the absorption of essential nutrients, particularly iron and calcium. Regular consumption of strong tea can lead to problems related to bones and teeth, and it may even result in anemia. - Nutrient Loss:
Over-boiling milk tea causes the loss of essential antioxidants. The longer the tea is boiled, the more the acidic properties increase, making it difficult to digest. - Loss of Antioxidants:
Boiling tea for an extended period destroys antioxidants like theaflavins and catechins, which are known for their stress-relieving properties. Over-boiling also increases its acidic properties, resulting in a bitter taste and making it hard to digest. - Digestive Problems:
Consuming over-boiled tea can lead to various digestive issues, including bloating, gas, pain, and acidity. This happens because the protein structure in the tea changes, making it harder to digest.
Therefore, it’s best to avoid boiling milk tea for too long and consume it in moderation to enjoy its health benefits without harming your body.
