Drinking Pu'er tea has certain taboos, such as unsuitability for those with sleep disorders, hypoglycemic patients, and individuals with gastric ulcers. Other points to consider include avoiding excessive consumption and being mindful of the timing of drinking.
1. Avoid strong Pu'er tea on an empty stomach
It is generally recommended to Drink tea lightly, as consuming strong tea can be detrimental to health. In particular, drinking strong tea on an empty stomach can irritate the digestive system.
Some people prefer strong tea, finding light tea tasteless, but long-term consumption of strong tea can harm health.
Although Pu'er tea has a digestive and stomach-soothing effect, drinking strong Pu'er tea on an empty stomach can increase gastrointestinal motility. Drinking strong raw Pu'er tea on an empty stomach can easily irritate and damage the stomach lining. Over time, this can lead to gastrointestinal dysfunction and may cause feelings of hunger. In severe cases, it can result in a hypoglycemic state, which is detrimental to health.
Drinking strong Pu'er tea on an empty stomach should be avoided; instead, drink according to personal preference and timing. As the saying goes, “Tea on an empty stomach causes palpitations, and tea before bed makes sleep difficult.”
2. Do not drink overnight Pu'er tea
What changes occur when tea is left out for a long time? Studies have shown that the most significant change is further oxidation of tea polyphenols, leading to a darker color.
A clear, green Cup of tea will lose its green hue and become more yellow over time, especially at higher temperatures. This is due to the oxidation of tea polyphenols into yellowish-red, reddish-brown products, mainly theaflavins, thearubigins, and theabrownins.
The extensive oxidation of tea polyphenols causes the tea to become cloudy and reduces its health benefits. Additionally, Pu'er tea brewed in a thermos or overnight should not be consumed regularly.
3. Drink new Pu'er tea sparingly
Raw Pu'er tea is cool in nature, so those with cold stomachs or gastrointestinal issues should exercise caution. For newly harvested and processed teas, there is often a strong smoky flavor from manual fixation, and excessive consumption can cause discomfort such as thirst.
For some raw Pu'er teas with a strong aroma, they may also cause discomfort related to flatulence and are not suitable for those with gastrointestinal issues.
From a nutritional standpoint, new Pu'er tea that hasn't been stored for some time lacks oxidized nutrients. Elderly patients with insufficient gastric acid or chronic gastric ulcers may experience adverse reactions from prolonged consumption.
4. Avoid drinking immediately before or after meals
Many people have the habit of Drinking Tea, and doing so scientifically and reasonably can be beneficial to health. For some avid tea drinkers, they might drink tea throughout the day.
However, there are specific guidelines to follow when drinking tea. Improper tea consumption can be detrimental rather than beneficial to health. For example, some people have the habit of drinking tea during or right after meals, which is incorrect.
Drinking large amounts of Pu'er tea before meals dilutes saliva, affecting digestion. When drinking after meals, timing is important, and it should not be done blindly. Drinking one hour after a meal is ideal for achieving the best health benefits.
Therefore, it is not advisable to drink tea within half an hour before or after meals to avoid digestive issues. Drinking plain Water after meals is recommended.
Pu'er tea is a traditional Chinese beverage that has been enjoyed for thousands of years. Its unique fermentation process and medicinal properties make it popular among consumers. However, there are certain taboos to be aware of when drinking Pu'er tea.