Have you been drinking tea on an empty stomach? Five risks you should know about (Image credit: iStock)
Drinking tea in a empty stomachTea, a common morning ritual for many, can pose several health risks. Tea contains tannins and caffeine, which can increase gastric acid production. Without food in the stomach, this excess acid can lead to irritation and potentially cause gastritis or ulcers. While tea can offer numerous benefits, such as antioxidants and increased mental acuity, consuming it without food can lead to several adverse effects. Here we have listed five risks associated with drinking tea on an empty stomach.
1. Increase Heartburn
Drinking tea, especially on an empty stomach, can stimulate gastric acid production. Tea contains compounds like caffeine and theophylline that can increase acid secretion, leading to an imbalance. This increased acidity can cause symptoms like heartburn, indigestion, and upset stomach. According to a study published in the Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, caffeine and other stimulants in tea can exacerbate acid reflux and gastritis, conditions that are made worse by high stomach acidity.
2. Digestive disorders
Natural compounds in tea can interfere with digestive processes if consumed on an empty stomach. Tannins, a type of polyphenol found in tea, can inhibit the absorption of essential nutrients, including iron. Research from The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition highlights that tannins in tea can bind to iron and reduce its bioavailability, which can lead to deficiencies over time. This is especially concerning for people at risk of iron deficiency anemia.
3. Negative impact on Blood sugar levels
Drinking tea on an empty stomach can cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels. While tea generally has a low glycemic index, drinking it without food can cause rapid changes in blood glucose. A study published in The British Journal of Nutrition indicates that the caffeine in tea may affect insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, which could increase the risk of blood sugar imbalances. For people with diabetes or prediabetes, this could lead to greater challenges in controlling blood glucose levels.
4. It can increase Anxiety and nervousness
The caffeine content in tea can have a stimulant effect, which may be more pronounced when consumed on an empty stomach. Without food to buffer its effects, caffeine can lead to heightened feelings of anxiety, restlessness, and nervousness. A review in Psychiatry Research shows that caffeine intake can amplify anxiety symptoms and disrupt sleep patterns. Drinking tea on an empty stomach may exacerbate these effects, particularly in sensitive individuals.
5. It can cause Dehydration
Tea is a diuretic, meaning it can increase urine output and potentially lead to dehydration. When consumed on an empty stomach, the diuretic effect of tea may be more pronounced, especially if adequate hydration is not maintained throughout the day. According to a study published in The Journal of Nutrition, diuretics can lead to fluid and electrolyte imbalances, which could contribute to dehydration if not properly managed.
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