Attention tea/coffee lovers: ICMR guidelines on the right way to consume it

Digital Desk: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has often faced scrutiny for inaccuracies in its recommendations. However, amidst the debate, its guidelines on tea and coffee consumption stand out as commendably accurate. These beverages, ubiquitous in daily life, indeed wield a significant influence on our physiological well-being, primarily due to their caffeine content.

Black tea, a staple for many, contains caffeine, a compound with well-documented adverse effects on the body. Recognizing this, ICMR advocates for a shift towards herbal alternatives like chamomile, rose, dandelion root, jasmine, and hibiscus, which offer myriad health benefits devoid of caffeine's drawbacks. For instance, chamomile tea is renowned for its calming effects on the nervous system, while hibiscus tea promotes hair health.

Functional nutritionist Mugdha Pradhan emphasizes the digestive benefits of herbal teas, attributing them to their bioactive compounds. However, she underscores the importance of moderation, cautioning against excessive consumption of potent ingredients like turmeric, which may lead to adverse effects.

Caffeine dependency, a common consequence of regular tea and coffee consumption, can impair adrenal function and disrupt cortisol production, affecting energy levels and sleep patterns. Furthermore, the presence of tannins and oxalates in tea inhibits iron absorption, posing a concern in regions like India, where anemia prevalence is significant, especially among women.

Pradhan highlights the alarming statistics from the National Family Health Survey, indicating a high prevalence of anemia among women in India, underscoring the need for caution in tea consumption, particularly for this demographic. Additionally, the adverse effects of added sugar and hyper-processed milk further compound the health risks associated with tea.

ICMR's prudent counsel on tea and coffee consumption aligns with current scientific understanding, emphasizing moderation, and the adoption of healthier alternatives. By heeding these recommendations, individuals can safeguard their health, mitigating the risks of caffeine dependence and its associated health complications.