What do experts say about the habit of pouring a cup of hot tea right after eating?

Drinking tea after meals can be a good habit. Green tea is high in antioxidants and polyphenols, with catechins such as epigallocatechin gallate helping to lower cholesterol levels and prevent chronic diseases.

Here, nutritionist Lovneet Batra in India shares how to use tea to get the most health benefits.

Many people have the habit of drinking tea right after meals.

Benefits of drinking tea after meals

There are reasons why people have long enjoyed sipping tea after meals.

Drinking tea after meals can aid digestion and help reduce bloating, says Batra. Antioxidants, especially catechins, help boost metabolism and improve overall digestive efficiency, according to the Hindustan Times.

According to studies, drinking tea after meals helps reduce bloating, thanks to tea containing high levels of polyphenols and antioxidants that help treat indigestion. Tea also has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce digestive complications. Some polyphenolic compounds such as catechins increase the activity of digestive enzymes while pepsin helps break down proteins in food, according to health news site Onlymyhealth.

Drinking tea after meals can aid digestion and help reduce bloating.

Side effects of drinking tea right after meals

However, enjoying a cup of tea right after a meal may not be as beneficial as you think, according to the news site Lybrate .

Tannins in tea have many side effects. They interfere with the absorption of many minerals including iron, zinc, and calcium (slowing down the absorption process). This can lead to deficiencies in these minerals, which can have negative effects on health.

In some people, tannins can also cause constipation.

In addition, the caffeine content in tea can also hinder the absorption of nutrients in the digestive system.

Considering all the pros and cons, it's best not to drink tea close to meals on a regular basis, according to Lybrate .

So how long after eating can you drink tea?

Dr D Raghunatha Rao, working at the National Institute of Nutrition ICMR (India), recommends waiting at least 15 - 20 minutes, preferably 1 hour after eating, before drinking tea.

Mr Rao said it is best to avoid drinking tea 1 hour before and after meals because tannins in tea hinder iron absorption, according to Onlymyhealth.

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