Drinking tea immediately after a meal is a widespread habit—but it may pose certain health risks and is generally not recommended.
According to Dr. Yelena Nasankayeva, an immunology and allergy specialist, consuming tea right after eating can disrupt physiological and biochemical digestive processes.
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She explains:
“Tea contains tannins, which are polyphenolic compounds with strong astringent properties. These compounds interact with large food molecules—especially proteins like collagen and gluten—to form insoluble complexes. This interferes with digestive enzymes such as pepsin, disrupting protein breakdown, and leading to sensations of heaviness, bloating, and abdominal discomfort.”
Additionally, tannins reduce the activity of amylase and lipase, enzymes essential for carbohydrate and fat metabolism. This slows the hydrolysis of starches and triglycerides, reducing the bioavailability of these nutrients.
She adds:
“Drinking fluids, including tea, during or immediately after a meal dilutes gastric juices and raises stomach pH. This weakens the activity of hydrochloric acid–dependent enzymes, especially when consuming protein-rich foods.”
Experimental data shows that gastric juice activity can drop by 30–50% when tea is consumed during or right after eating.
Tannins also affect the absorption of micronutrients by forming poorly soluble compounds with non-heme iron, calcium, zinc, and magnesium.
Dr. Nasankayeva warns:
“Poor iron absorption—especially in individuals with underlying deficiencies like vegetarians and pregnant women—can lead to iron-deficiency anemia. Deficiencies in calcium and magnesium are linked to osteoporosis, neuromuscular disorders, and spasms, while zinc deficiency weakens innate immunity and reduces the skin’s ability to regenerate.”
She also cautions against drinking very hot tea (above 70°C) after a meal, as the heat may damage the mucous membranes of the esophagus and stomach, potentially leading to erosive esophagitis or gastritis. On the other hand, cold tea may cause other digestive issues.
So, what is the optimal time to drink tea?
Dr. Nasankayeva recommends:
30–60 minutes after a light meal
90–120 minutes after a protein- and fat-rich meal
She also suggests choosing lightly brewed white or herbal teas such as chamomile, mint, or ginger, and avoiding strong black or green tea, especially with added milk, and steering clear of very hot beverages right after eating.
(Source: gazeta.ru)
