Healthy Tips: Tea is one of the most loved drinks across the world. Whether you enjoy black tea, green tea, or herbal tea, a hot cup can be both refreshing and soothing. Many people also believe that tea has health benefits – like helping with digestion, improving focus, and relaxing the mind.
But did you know that some common mistakes while making tea can actually harm your health? Yes, the way you prepare and drink tea can decide whether it’s good or bad for you. Here are some simple health tips and tea-making mistakes you should avoid:
1. Boiling Tea Leaves for Too Long
Contents
- 1 1. Boiling Tea Leaves for Too Long
- 2 2. Adding Too Much Sugar
- 3 3. Drinking Tea on an Empty Stomach
- 4 4. Using Low-Quality or Old Tea Leaves
- 5 5. Adding Milk to Green Tea or Herbal Tea
- 6 6. Drinking Too Much Tea in a Day
- 7 7. Using Non-Filtered or Reheated Water
- 8 8. Adding Spices in Large Amounts
- 9 9. Not Cleaning the Tea Kettle or Pot
- 10 Final Thoughts
- 11 Latest Updates
Healthy Tips Many people think that the longer you boil the tea leaves, the stronger and healthier the tea becomes. But this is not true. Boiling tea leaves for too long can destroy the natural antioxidants present in the tea. It can also make the tea very bitter and hard on your stomach.
Tip: Boil water first, and then add the tea leaves. Let them steep (soak) for 2–3 minutes only. Don’t over-boil.
2. Adding Too Much Sugar
Sugar is often added to improve the taste of tea, especially in milk tea. But adding too much sugar can increase your risk of diabetes, obesity, and heart problems. Some people even drink tea multiple times a day with 2–3 spoons of sugar each time – this is very harmful.
Tip: Use as little sugar as possible. If you want sweetness, try honey or jaggery in small amounts.
3. Drinking Tea on an Empty Stomach
Healthy Tips Many people start their day with a hot cup of tea before eating anything. But this habit can cause acidity, bloating, and even stomach pain in some people. Tea contains caffeine, which can irritate your stomach lining.
Tip: Eat something light like a biscuit or fruit before having tea in the morning.
4. Using Low-Quality or Old Tea Leaves
Cheap or old tea leaves may contain harmful chemicals, dust, or fungus. Drinking tea made from poor-quality leaves can harm your liver, kidneys, and digestion.
Tip: Always choose fresh, good-quality tea from trusted brands. Store it in a cool, dry place.
5. Adding Milk to Green Tea or Herbal Tea
Milk tea is very popular, but adding milk to green tea or herbal tea is a bad idea. Milk proteins can block the antioxidants in green tea, reducing its health benefits.
Tip: Drink green tea or herbal tea without milk. If you want milk tea, use black tea as the base.
6. Drinking Too Much Tea in a Day
Healthy Tips Some people drink 5–6 cups of tea every day, thinking it will keep them active. But too much tea can cause headaches, poor sleep, iron deficiency, and dehydration. It may also cause dependency due to caffeine.
Tip: Limit your tea intake to 2–3 cups a day. Drink more water to stay hydrated.
7. Using Non-Filtered or Reheated Water
Reboiling water or using tap water full of impurities can make your tea harmful. Reheating water several times can change its composition and reduce the oxygen levels in it.
Tip: Use fresh, filtered water for boiling every time you make tea.
8. Adding Spices in Large Amounts
Masala chai is tasty, but using too many spices like clove, cinnamon, or cardamom can lead to digestion issues or acidity. Some spices can also cause allergic reactions if used in large amounts.
Tip: Use a small pinch of spices. Avoid adding too many at once.
9. Not Cleaning the Tea Kettle or Pot
A dirty kettle or pot can collect bacteria and rust. Making tea in such utensils can mix harmful substances into your drink.
Tip: Wash your tea utensils regularly and keep them dry.
Final Thoughts
Tea can be your best friend if made the right way – light, fresh, and healthy. But small mistakes like over-boiling, excess sugar, or too much caffeine can make this beloved drink harmful. Always remember, moderation is key.
