Is Drinking Tea After Meals Really Risky? Here's the Answer

Drinking tea after a meal is often considered a great way to freshen your breath and soothe your body after a meal. Its fragrant aroma and mild flavor make it a daily habit for many.

However, did you know that this habit can actually have negative health effects if done too frequently? According to halodoc.com, drinking tea after a meal may feel refreshing, but this habit can have negative health consequences.

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The phytic acid in tea can inhibit the absorption of iron, zinc, and magnesium, which the body needs, increasing the risk of anemia if consumed continuously. Furthermore, tea contains astringent tannins, which can slow down the digestive process and trigger constipation, and even diarrhea in some people.

For people with stomach disorders, drinking tea after meals can also potentially stimulate excess stomach acid production, which can cause burning, nausea, heartburn, or worsen stomach irritation and GERD. A study titled "Association between Tea Consumption and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease," published in 2019, found that there was generally no significant association between tea consumption and the risk of GERD.

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However, subgroup analyses suggest that drinking tea may increase the risk of GERD in certain individuals, so further research is needed. To maintain healthy digestion and optimal nutrient absorption, it's best to wait 30-60 minutes before drinking tea after meals, or choose alternatives like water to aid digestion.