Starting the day with a warm cup of milk tea, or doodh chai, is a beloved ritual for many. However, drinking milk tea on an empty stomach can come with some unwanted health effects. Here’s a breakdown of why having this beverage first thing in the morning might not be the best choice.

Triggers Bloating and Gas

Drinking milk tea without any food in your stomach can lead to bloating and gas. Milk contains lactose, a sugar that’s difficult to digest for some people, and the combination of milk and tea tannins can slow digestion. When lactose isn’t fully processed, it can ferment in the gut, leading to gas and a heavy, bloated feeling. This side effect is especially common when milk tea is consumed on an empty stomach since there’s no other food to aid in the digestive process.

Increases Acidity and Upsets Digestion

Milk tea is acidic due to the caffeine and tannins it contains. When consumed without food, these compounds can irritate the stomach lining and stimulate the production of gastric acid, leading to heartburn and acid reflux. The astringent tannins in tea can also cause nausea or a “queasy” feeling, as the empty stomach has no buffer to reduce the tea’s impact. Regularly starting the day with milk tea can contribute to chronic digestive issues like acid reflux, indigestion, and overall stomach discomfort.

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 Causes Rapid Heart Rate and Restlessness

One of the most noticeable effects of milk tea is the caffeine boost it provides, which can be stimulating but also problematic when taken on an empty stomach. Without food to slow down the absorption of caffeine, it enters the bloodstream quickly, leading to a sudden spike in energy, which may cause the heart rate to increase. This can result in feelings of restlessness, anxiety, and even palpitations. For those sensitive to caffeine, this rapid absorption on an empty stomach can make it difficult to concentrate or stay calm, impacting the start of their day.

 Lacks Essential Nutrients

Milk tea does not contain the necessary nutrients that the body needs after a night’s rest. After hours without food, your body requires a balanced intake of vitamins, minerals, proteins, and complex carbohydrates to maintain energy and focus throughout the day. Milk tea falls short in this regard, as it lacks the macronutrients found in a complete breakfast. People who opt for milk tea in place of a healthy meal may feel drained, unfocused, and more likely to experience an energy crash mid-morning.

 Causes Blood Sugar Spikes and Crashes

Many people add sugar to their morning cup of milk tea, which can lead to blood sugar imbalances. Drinking sugary milk tea on an empty stomach causes a quick rise in blood glucose levels, followed by an inevitable drop. This fluctuation can lead to irritability, fatigue, and a surge in hunger shortly after drinking the tea. Over time, these frequent spikes and drops in blood sugar can affect insulin sensitivity, increasing the risk of insulin resistance and related metabolic issues.

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Healthier Morning Alternatives

For a gentler start to the day, consider drinking a glass of warm water or herbal tea, which can soothe the stomach without causing acidity or bloating. Pairing your tea with a light breakfast that includes proteins, fiber, and healthy fats can also help reduce digestive issues and balance blood sugar levels. By opting for a balanced breakfast and enjoying milk tea later, you can still enjoy the taste and comfort of milk tea while supporting your health.

In conclusion, while milk tea can be an enjoyable beverage, consuming it on an empty stomach can lead to issues like bloating, acidity, rapid heart rate, nutritional gaps, and blood sugar fluctuations. By being mindful of these effects, you can make better choices that enhance both your health and energy throughout the day.