Tea is closely related to our daily lives, and drinking tea has many benefits, such as reducing fat and aiding digestion. However, there are many considerations when drinking tea, and it's important to be aware of certain things to truly gain health benefits. Here are some points to keep in mind.
What Precautions Should Be Taken When Drinking Tea?
1. It's best to drink tea about an hour after a meal.
Dr. Liu Yandi, the director of the Gastroenterology Department at Tianjin People's Hospital, explains that drinking tea after a meal can affect iron absorption. Tannins in tea can bind with dietary iron, forming a precipitate that hinders iron absorption, which may lead to anemia over time. Therefore, it's best to drink tea about an hour after eating. Also, avoid drinking tea on an empty stomach, as it can dilute gastric acid, affecting digestion and potentially causing dizziness, palpitations, or other discomforts.
2. The first Infusion of tea should be discarded.
Some teas may contain residual pesticides, dust mites, etc., so it's best to discard the first infusion. Fresh teas have a short storage period and contain higher levels of unoxidized polyphenols, aldehydes, and alcohols, which can strongly stimulate the gastrointestinal mucosa and easily trigger gastric issues, so fresh teas should be consumed sparingly.
3. Adjust the type of tea according to the season.
While tea does have health benefits, it's not suitable for everyone. Patients with gastrointestinal diseases, coronary heart disease, iron-deficiency anemia, kidney disease, or nervous system disorders should avoid tea. Even for those who can drink tea, the type of tea should be adjusted according to the season. Flower tea is suitable for spring to help regulate Liver qi; green tea is ideal for summer to cool and quench thirst; oolong tea is good for autumn to clear heat and promote saliva; while black tea and ripe Pu'er tea are warming and dispel cold in winter.
4. Tea should not be used to take medication.
Medications come in various types and forms. Tannins and alkaloids in tea can chemically react with some medications. When taking sedatives or iron supplements, tea polyphenols can interact with iron and form precipitates, so it's not advisable to take these medications with tea water, as it may affect their efficacy. Additionally, when taking Ginseng and other tonics, it's also not recommended to drink tea.
5. Do not drink tea on an empty stomach.
Although tea contains many nutrients, it can dilute gastric juices. Drinking tea on an empty stomach can dilute gastric juices, thus reducing digestive function. Since the body absorbs more on an empty stomach, this can cause symptoms such as dizziness, palpitations, weakness in the limbs, and headaches. This is particularly important for middle-aged and elderly individuals who enjoy drinking tea.
Drinking tea is not only a reflection of traditional culture but also a healthy way to maintain well-being. Therefore, for those who love tea and health, please pay attention to these precautions when drinking tea.