Tea is the world’s favorite beverage, and India’s tea culture is legendary. While most of us love our daily cuppa, pairing tea with certain foods can harm digestion and overall health. If you drink tea after every meal or mix it with random foods, pause. Let’s explore which combinations should be avoided.
MILK AND TEA: A DISASTROUS DUO
Although common in many tea blends, milk may interfere with the benefits of tea. Casein in milk and tannins in tea clash, reducing the tea’s antioxidant absorption. The creaminess of milk can upset digestion, particularly for those with lactose intolerance. If you seek the full health benefits of tea, consider enjoying it without milk.
SUGARY TREATS: A RECIPE FOR DISCOMFORT
Pairing sugary foods like pastries or cookies with tea is tempting but problematic. Excess sugar spikes blood sugar levels, diminishing tea’s health benefits like improved insulin sensitivity. Sugary snacks can also cause an energy crash later, leaving you sluggish. The sweetness overpowers the delicate tea flavors, and the combination can disrupt digestion, leading to bloating.
FRIED FOODS: A HEAVY, UNHEALTHY MIX
Fried snacks may be popular with tea, but they come with risks. Fried foods are high in unhealthy fats, making them hard to digest. When consumed with tea, these foods can slow digestion, leading to discomfort. The combination may also trigger heartburn, acid reflux, and disrupt nutrient absorption. Avoid pairing fried foods with your tea for a better digestive experience.
CITRUS FRUITS: A BITTER PARTNERSHIP
Tea and citrus fruits don’t mix well. The acidity in citrus fruits reacts with the tannins in tea, making it bitter and astringent. Additionally, the citric acid can reduce the absorption of tea’s powerful antioxidants, especially catechins. Those with acid reflux or sensitive stomachs should steer clear of this pairing, as it can exacerbate discomfort.
SPICY FOODS: A POTENTIAL DISASTER
Spicy foods, such as curries or chili, are popular in some tea pairings but can cause digestive distress. Spices like capsaicin irritate the stomach lining, and the acidity of tea adds to the discomfort. This combination can lead to heartburn, bloating, and indigestion. If you crave a soothing tea moment, skip the spice-rich dishes.
CHEESE: A HEAVY, UNPLEASANT MIX
Cheese, though delicious, doesn’t pair well with tea. High in fat and protein, cheese can slow digestion when combined with tea. This pairing can make you feel sluggish or bloated. Moreover, cheese’s calcium may reduce tea’s absorption of key nutrients like antioxidants, diminishing its health benefits. If you’re looking for a light and enjoyable tea experience, leave out the cheese.
A MINDFUL APPROACH TO TEA PAIRING
Tea is a beverage full of health benefits, but choosing the right food pairings is essential to maximizing its effects. Avoid mixing tea with milk, sugary treats, fried snacks, citrus fruits, spicy foods, or cheese. Opt for lighter, more digestive-friendly food choices to complement your tea and keep enjoying this beloved drink the healthy way.
