This website is for educational and informational purposes only, and I am not a medical professional. Please consult your physician regarding any health concerns you may have.
Although tea is generally a healthy beverage, drinking it without eating beforehand can cause stomach pain or other serious health concerns. I’ve definitely experienced those effects myself at times and wondered why exactly that is. In this post, I’ll explain some of the reasons why you shouldn’t drink tea on an empty stomach.
Acidity
Teas made from Camellia Sinensis are mildly acidic in nature. Black is generally the most acidic, with an average pH of about 5. Green tea tends to be more alkaline, with a pH range between 7 and 10. Tea is not acidic enough to cause issues for most people, but it can aggravate preexisting conditions like acid reflux or ulcers.
Those who are affected can experience nausea, heartburn, indigestion, and bloating. Eating before drinking a cup of tea acts as a buffer to reduce irritation to the stomach lining and can help reduce symptoms. Herbal teas that do not contain mint, ginger, or citrus would be the best option for chronic sufferers.
Caffeine and Catechins
The healthy substances that we look to tea for can cause health issues. Caffeine and catechins like ECGC are rapidly absorbed by our bodies when we drink tea on an empty stomach. That can lead to pain, nausea, and uncomfortable jitters. Anyone who has forgotten to eat while walking around tea trade shows like World Tea Expo can attest to how unpleasant it feels. Caffeine can also cause anxiety, cortisol spikes, and heart palpitations when we overdo it.
Polyphenols in Tea Can Interfere with Iron Absorption
Polyphenols, sometimes called tannins, are what cause astringency in tea. They have been shown to interfere with the absorption of non-heme iron. Consuming tea on an empty stomach can cause anemia and even hair loss. It is recommended to eat something 30 minutes to an hour before prior to having tea to avoid that happening.
More polyphenols are extracted from tea when it is brewed for a longer period of time or when hotter water is used. That’s why green tea tastes bad when brewed with water that is too hot. This effect is exacerbated when drinking tea on an empty stomach. Lower water temperature and steeping for less time can help to take the edge off, especially if you haven’t had a full meal.
Conclusion
Moderation is always a good rule of thumb. Too much of a good thing is rarely a good thing. Munching on a small snack before sipping your tea is a good idea, especially when you don’t have time for a full meal. Simply paying attention to how your body feels can also go a long way toward preventing unwanted symptoms.
Most herbal infusions are gentler on our systems, making them a better choice when you need to sip something without eating. Every person is also different regarding what they can handle and when. When in doubt, always consult your physician about any health concerns or dietary changes.
Have you ever experienced negative effects from drinking tea on an empty stomach? What did you do to alleviate them? Let me know about your experience in the comments below!
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