Why does drinking tea cause bloating?
According to nutritionist Fariha Shanam, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi (India), drinking tea on an empty stomach can cause bloating because the caffeine in tea stimulates the production of stomach acid, irritating the digestive tract. In addition, drinking caffeine early in the morning can affect the production of cortisol - the hormone that helps the body stay awake and active. This can make you feel tired and have digestive problems.
Drinking tea on an empty stomach can cause bloating for a number of reasons:
- Caffeine in tea stimulates stomach acid production, causing irritation and increasing bloating, especially with strong tea.
- Tannins in tea can combine with proteins in the stomach, causing nausea, mild stomach pain and bloating when drunk on an empty stomach.
- Milk tea with milk and sugar can cause bloating for people who are lactose intolerant or have problems with sugar and fat.
- Some herbal teas like peppermint or chamomile can cause gas and worsen bloating if you're sensitive.
How to reduce bloating when drinking tea
To avoid bloating and stomach irritation when drinking tea, Nutritionist Fariha Shanam recommends you try the following:
Snack before tea: Toast or biscuits help neutralize acid and reduce stomach irritation.
Reduce the strength of the tea: Avoid boiling the tea leaves for too long to reduce the concentration of tannins and caffeine, making the tea gentler on the stomach.
Choose mild herbal teas: Ginger tea, peppermint tea, or chamomile tea help soothe the digestive system and reduce bloating, especially ginger tea.
Drink water before drinking tea: A glass of water helps reduce the concentration of acid in the stomach and prepares the digestive system for drinking tea.
Enjoy tea slowly: Drink tea in small sips to reduce the burden on the digestive system.
Monitor your body's response: If you experience bloating, try reducing the amount of tea you drink or changing the type of tea and brewing method.
Conclude
If you feel bloated after drinking tea, it could be due to a number of factors, such as caffeine, tannins, or ingredients in milk tea and herbal teas, says nutritionist Fariha Shanam. However, by changing your brewing habits, pairing tea with light foods, and choosing less irritating teas, you can reduce the feeling of bloating and enjoy your tea more comfortably.
