Tea is an integral part of daily life for many people, especially in India where it is enjoyed at any time of day. Whether it's a morning ritual or a relaxing evening beverage, tea often comes with a variety of snacks such as samosas, pakoras, and biscuits. However, pairing tea with certain foods can negatively impact your health. Here’s a detailed guide on which foods to avoid with tea and why.
1. Deep-Fried Snacks
Deep-fried snacks like pakoras, samosas, and bhajis are popular choices to enjoy with tea. However, these snacks are typically cooked in large amounts of oil, which can lead to various health issues. Consuming these oily foods frequently can contribute to weight gain, high cholesterol levels, and heart disease. The combination of hot tea and oily snacks can also cause digestive discomfort. To maintain better health, consider opting for baked or steamed snacks instead of deep-fried ones.
2. Iron-Rich Foods
Tea contains compounds known as tannins and oxalates, which can interfere with the absorption of iron from foods. If you consume iron-rich foods such as spinach, lentils, or red meat with tea, your body may not absorb as much iron as it needs. This is particularly important for individuals with iron deficiency or anemia. To maximize iron absorption, it is advisable to drink tea at least an hour before or after consuming iron-rich foods.
3. Yogurt-Based Snacks
Yogurt and yogurt-based snacks like raita or curd fritters have a cooling effect on the body. Tea, on the other hand, is a hot beverage. Combining hot tea with cold yogurt-based snacks can disturb the digestive system, leading to issues like bloating and indigestion. The contrasting temperatures can affect the balance of your digestive enzymes and lead to discomfort. It is best to avoid combining these two and instead enjoy yogurt separately from tea.
4. Sugary Foods
While not always considered a snack, sugary foods such as pastries and sweet biscuits are often paired with tea. Excessive consumption of sugar can lead to a range of health problems including weight gain, diabetes, and tooth decay. Moreover, sugary foods can cause rapid spikes and drops in blood sugar levels, which may leave you feeling fatigued or irritable. Opting for healthier alternatives such as fruits or nuts can provide a better balance when enjoying tea.
5. Spicy Foods
Spicy foods can stimulate digestion, but when combined with hot tea, they may exacerbate gastrointestinal issues. Spices can irritate the stomach lining, leading to heartburn or acid reflux. If you are sensitive to spicy foods, it’s better to avoid them with tea and choose milder options that are easier on your digestive system.
6. Dairy Products
Dairy products like cheese or cream biscuits are sometimes consumed with tea. However, for some people, the combination of dairy and tea can lead to digestive issues such as bloating or gas. The combination can also affect the absorption of certain nutrients. If you experience discomfort, consider reducing your intake of dairy products with tea or opting for non-dairy alternatives.
Tea can be a delightful and comforting beverage, but the choice of accompanying snacks plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health. By avoiding deep-fried snacks, iron-rich foods, yogurt-based items, sugary treats, spicy foods, and dairy products with tea, you can prevent potential health issues and enhance your overall well-being. Make informed choices and enjoy your tea in a way that complements your health and lifestyle.
How Turmeric's Active Compound, Curcumin, Rewires Your Genes to Beat Diabetes
How to Reduce Stress and Improve Mental Well-Being Every Day with This Trick
