How Drinking Tea Every Day Can Harm Your Health: Expert Advice

Tea is deeply loved in India, especially milk tea. Many people start their mornings with a cup and continue sipping 4 to 5 cups throughout the day, regardless of the season. Offering tea is also a common gesture when visiting someone’s home.

However, recently, some have reduced their tea intake due to growing awareness of its potential health risks. Let’s hear from experts about how daily tea consumption might affect your body and what the ideal quantity is.


What Experts Say

Priya Paliwal, Chief Dietician at Shri Balaji Action Medical Institute, Delhi, explains that while tea is a daily habit for many, excessive consumption can be harmful. Drinking 2 to 3 cups a day is generally safe, but exceeding this amount may cause health issues.

Tea contains caffeine, which in large quantities can lead to problems like insomnia, restlessness, rapid heartbeat, and headaches.


Additional Health Concerns

  • Drinking tea on an empty stomach may trigger gas, acidity, and digestive troubles.

  • Consuming tea loaded with milk and sugar frequently can contribute to weight gain, worsen blood sugar control, and weaken bones.

  • Excessive tea intake also hampers iron absorption, increasing the risk of anemia (iron deficiency).


Best Practices for Tea Consumption

  • The ideal time to drink tea is after breakfast and 1 to 2 hours post-lunch.

  • Avoid drinking tea 2 to 3 hours before bedtime to prevent sleep disturbances.

  • Herbal and green teas can be healthier alternatives in moderation but should not be overconsumed.

  • Whether it’s milk tea or green tea, moderation is key.

  • Also, consider the weather before deciding how much tea to drink.