For many, a steaming cup of milk tea—fondly known as doodh chai—is the perfect way to kickstart the day. Its comforting aroma and blend of tea leaves with creamy milk have made it a beloved beverage in households around the world. However, enjoying this ritual on an empty stomach may lead to unintended health consequences.

Though tea is celebrated for its antioxidants and energizing properties, the timing of consumption plays a critical role in its overall impact. Drinking milk tea first thing in the morning can overshadow its benefits, leading to discomfort and long-term health issues. Let’s dive into the potential downsides of consuming milk tea on an empty stomach and explore how you can enjoy this popular drink more mindfully.

1. Digestive Distress: Bloating and Gas

Milk tea’s rich combination of milk and tea can challenge your digestive system when consumed without food. On an empty stomach, this blend tends to feel heavy, causing bloating and gas. The acidity in tea can further irritate your stomach lining, potentially leading to gastritis over time.

This discomfort is exacerbated if you’re prone to digestive issues. To avoid these symptoms, it’s better to pair your morning doodh chai with a light snack, such as fruits or toast. This will help your stomach manage the drink more effectively, reducing the chances of an upset tummy.

2. Acidity and Indigestion

Tea contains tannins, compounds that are responsible for its characteristic flavor. However, when tannins interact with an empty stomach, they can increase acidity levels, resulting in heartburn or acid reflux. This is especially problematic for individuals with pre-existing acid-related conditions.

The caffeine in tea also contributes to acidity, amplifying these effects when consumed without any food buffer. To prevent this, consider having a small meal or snack before indulging in your milk tea. This practice can help neutralize excess acid and support smoother digestion.

3. Unstable Energy Levels and Blood Sugar Fluctuations

Milk tea, often sweetened with sugar, can cause a sudden spike in blood sugar levels when consumed on an empty stomach. This quick burst of energy is usually followed by a crash, leaving you feeling fatigued and irritable.

This fluctuation in blood sugar can impact your mood, focus, and productivity throughout the day. Instead of starting your morning with just milk tea, aim for a balanced breakfast that includes protein, healthy fats, and whole grains. This will help stabilize your energy and keep you productive for longer.

4. Increased Heart Rate and Anxiety

The caffeine in tea is a natural stimulant that activates your nervous system. While this can be beneficial in moderation, consuming caffeine on an empty stomach intensifies its effects. This might lead to an increased heart rate, feelings of anxiety, or even jitters.

Those who are sensitive to caffeine may also experience difficulty concentrating or feelings of restlessness. To mitigate these effects, ensure your stomach isn’t empty when you sip your doodh chai. Adding a hearty breakfast to your routine can help balance caffeine absorption and reduce its impact on your system.

5. Reduced Nutrient Absorption

Milk tea can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb certain nutrients. Tannins in tea bind to iron and other essential minerals, making them less available for absorption. This effect is particularly concerning for individuals on plant-based diets or those with specific dietary restrictions.

When consumed on an empty stomach, milk tea may reduce the bioavailability of nutrients from subsequent meals. To counteract this, it’s best to have your tea after eating a nutritious breakfast, ensuring your body gets the nutrients it needs.

How to Enjoy Milk Tea Mindfully

While milk tea has its drawbacks when consumed first thing in the morning, you don’t have to give it up entirely. Here are a few tips to enjoy your favorite drink without compromising your health:

1. Pair It with Food: Start your day with a light, nutritious breakfast before sipping on milk tea. Foods like whole-grain toast, eggs, or fresh fruits can help create a balanced meal.
2. Reduce Sugar: Minimize the amount of sugar you add to your tea to avoid sharp blood sugar fluctuations.
3. Opt for Smaller Portions: If you find it hard to resist milk tea in the morning, try consuming a smaller portion to reduce its impact.
4. Switch to Herbal Alternatives: On days when you wake up with an empty stomach, consider herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint, which are gentler on your digestive system.
5. Hydrate First: Start your morning with a glass of water before reaching for your tea. This can help prepare your stomach and improve digestion.

Conclusion

Milk tea, while comforting and delicious, isn’t always the best choice for an empty stomach. From digestive discomfort and acidity to nutrient interference and blood sugar fluctuations, its side effects can overshadow the benefits of this popular beverage. By paying attention to the timing of your tea consumption and making small adjustments to your routine, you can continue to enjoy doodh chai without the unwanted consequences.

Remember, balance and mindfulness are key to a healthier lifestyle. Start your day with the right choices to ensure both your body and taste buds are satisfied!