Do you start your day with a cup of chai or bed tea? It might be time to reconsider. While many people find comfort and energy in a cup of tea, drinking it on an empty stomach can have negative effects on your health. According to dietician Vidhi Chawla, consuming a caffeinated beverage like tea first thing in the morning can stimulate the production of stomach acid, leading to discomfort and inflammation.

But that’s not all. Chawla also notes that drinking tea in the morning can interfere with the body’s natural production of cortisol, a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and provides energy throughout the day. This can result in feelings of fatigue and sluggishness later on.

Here are four specific reasons why you might want to avoid drinking tea on an empty stomach:

Stomach irritation:

Tea can cause irritation in the stomach lining, leading to discomfort, bloating, and nausea, especially when consumed on an empty stomach.

Dehydration
Tea can cause dehydration because it is a diuretic, which can boost urine production and lead to water loss. This effect is more pronounced in the morning since the body may already be dehydrated from several hours of not consuming any fluids.

Disrupts nutrient absorption

Tea can hinder nutrient absorption because it contains tannins, which can attach to minerals like iron and calcium and reduce their availability for the body to absorb.

Tooth decay
Drinking large amounts of tea over an extended period can lead to tooth decay because tea has natural acids that can wear down tooth enamel.

So, when is the best time to enjoy a cup of tea? According to celebrity nutritionist Pooja Makhija, it’s in the middle of the morning after breakfast, when the body’s metabolic process is working smoothly. And if you’re looking for alternative beverages to kickstart your day, Makhija recommends alkaline options like buttermilk or lukewarm water with a pinch of Himalayan pink salt. Some other healthy alternatives to morning tea are lime or methi water, aloe vera juice, coconut water, and a mixture of raw honey with a few drops of apple cider vinegar or coconut vinegar in water.

In short, while tea can be a delicious and comforting beverage, it’s best enjoyed in moderation and at the right time of day. So, next time you reach for that cup of chai in the morning, consider opting for a healthier alternative instead.