Chandigarh, December 5, 2024 (Punjab Khabarnama Bureau)- We all know that tea has more disadvantages than benefits, but do you know that boiling tea for a long time can have many harmful effects on the body? Nutritional scientists often warn that tea should not be heated for too long because it reduces the nutritional elements in the body and causes excessive acidity in the stomach. Moreover, when tea is overheated, harmful chemicals can form that may even lead to cancer. Despite these warnings, some people still overboil their tea and heat it excessively. Here’s what could happen when tea is heated for too long.
What does tea do to the body?
The ICMR recently warned about not heating tea excessively. There are several reasons for this. First, the tannin compounds in tea prevent the body from absorbing iron. Second, tannins combine with many chemicals to form new compounds that are harmful. As a result, the body experiences a deficiency in nutrients, and the stomach’s pH level changes.
Harmful effects of tea:
Acidity and pH Changes:
Overheating tea changes the pH of the milk, making it very acidic. If you frequently drink overheated tea, it can cause acidity and heartburn. It’s important to note that if you drink overheated tea occasionally, it might not cause significant harm, but if you make it a habit, the results could be disastrous. Some people have the habit of boiling tea for long periods and drinking it afterward. It is advised to immediately give up such habits.
Deficiency of Nutrients:
Clinical dietician Sushma from HT News mentions that heating tea for too long leads to a reduction in the nutrients in milk, especially Vitamin B12 and Vitamin C. As a result, antioxidants are also depleted, which can cause further harm.
Harmful Chemicals:
Tea contains tea leaves, milk, and sugar. When tea is overheated, the compounds in these three ingredients combine to form harmful chemicals. When tea is excessively heated, the lactose in the milk starts reacting with the proteins, leading to the formation of dangerous chemicals. The catechins and polyphenols in tea begin to break down, which degrades antioxidants. If you regularly consume overheated tea, its harmful effects start to show on your body.
Carcinogens:
Carcinogens are substances that can promote the growth of cancer cells. Acrylamide, a compound that forms when tea is overheated, has carcinogenic effects. However, it is yet to be proven in research.
Digestive Issues:
If you regularly consume overheated tea, it can cause digestive problems. Heating tea for a long time breaks down the proteins in it, forming harmful chemicals that result in various stomach issues.
Summary: Boiling tea for too long can have harmful effects on your body. It is advised to avoid boiling tea for extended periods to prevent these dangerous consequences.