The aromatic beverage is an integral element of many people's social and cultural lives. It is enjoyed throughout the day by people of all ages and backgrounds, whether in the morning, midday, or evening.
It is frequently served with appetizers and meals. But are you aware that certain combinations can be deleterious to the body or inhibit nutrient absorption? Ann Wairimu provides a list of dishes and beverages to avoid while drinking tea.
1. iron-rich produce
Consuming iron-rich vegetables with tea reduces the body's assimilation of iron. This is due to the fact that tea contains tannins and oxalates, which inhibit the assimilation of iron from iron-rich foods. These compounds can bind iron, preventing its absorption into the bloodstream. Tannins are present in green and white tea, as well as black tea, which has the maximum concentration. Therefore, avoid consuming iron-rich plant foods like nuts, green leafy vegetables, whole grains, and legumes with tea. Also avoid drinking tea on an empty stomach.
2. Lemon juice
Lemon juice should not be consumed immediately before or after consuming tea. When tea leaves are combined with lemon juice, the resulting beverage becomes acidic and may cause indigestion. If ingested on an empty stomach in the morning, lemon tea can also cause problems such as acid reflux and heartburn. If you already have acidity, you should avoid this tea completely.
3. Turmeric
Turmeric-containing foods should be avoided while consuming tea, as these foods can also cause stomach issues such as gas, acid reflux, and constipation. Both turmeric and tea leaves are incompatible and may cause a disruption if combined.
4. cold meals
Never combine a cold item with hot tea, as it can hinder digestion. Consuming foods of various temperatures at the same time can weaken the digestive system and cause nausea. Wait at least 30 minutes before consuming anything chilly after drinking warm tea.
5. sour dishes
High-acid foods, such as citrus fruits, can inhibit the absorption of catechins (antioxidants) present in tea. Consuming acidic foods at the same time as tea can reduce the quantity of catechins absorbed by the body.
6. Greek yogurt
Both tea and yogurt are acidic and may induce digestive difficulties. Additionally, drinking tea immediately after a meal containing curd may cause gastrointestinal distress.
In contrast, milk or cream can neutralize the polyphenols in tea, diminishing their antioxidant benefits. Nonetheless, this effect is less pronounced in black teas, and some individuals prefer the flavor of milk or cream in their tea. Therefore, it is a matter of preference.
7. Sweet dishes
While sweet foods such as cakes, cookies, and chocolate may complement the flavor of tea, consuming an excessive amount of sugar can cause a spike in blood sugar levels, which can contribute to energy crashes and other health problems. Consume sweet foods in moderation and couple them with a tea that has a flavor that complements them.
8. fatty or fried dishes
Fried or greasy foods can be heavy and difficult to metabolize, causing sluggishness and discomfort. Tea can aid digestion, but consuming it alongside weighty foods can negate this effect.
9. Fruits
The majority of nutritionists advise against consuming fruits with tea. Fruits are not only refreshing but also nutrient-dense. Consuming citrus with tea can cause acid reflux and other digestive problems.
At least thirty minutes must elapse between a supper and a fruit snack. Particularly, you should avoid consuming fruits immediately after a meal. One of the most common counterarguments to this claim is that it may result in the fermentation of the food, thereby impairing digestion.
Spicy or robustly flavored dishes
Strongly seasoned, peppery, or flavorful foods can overpower the delicate flavor of tea, making it difficult to fully appreciate the aroma and flavor of the tea. Included in this category are garlic, onion, hot sauce, curry, and chile.
In general, it is best to choose light, savory nibbles or delicate pastries that will not overpower the tea's flavor.
High-fibre or protein-rich foods can also delay the absorption of caffeine, preventing jitters and crashes. It is ultimately up to you to experiment with various food and tea combinations to determine what works best for your palate and body.