From Tea Tips to Wellness Sips
In celebration of International Tea Day on May 21, 2024,
We reflect on the enduring legacy of the tea plant. For over 5,000 years, this plant has been used to create a beloved beverage enjoyed by cultures around the globe, originating in regions like East Asia, particularly China. Today, tea remains a favorite drink worldwide. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), 6.1 million tonnes of tea were consumed in 2020, with black tea being the most popular variety.
Tea can be categorized in several ways, including by fermentation levels, storage methods, production processes, and preparation techniques. Based on fermentation, tea is divided into the following types:
- Non-fermented Tea:
Includes green tea and white tea.
- Partially-fermented Tea:
Includes Oolong tea.
- Completely-fermented Tea:
Includes black tea.
What You Should Know Before Enjoying Tea:
1. Caffeine Content
While caffeine can boost energy, consuming it in large amounts or near bedtime can disrupt sleep. It's best to avoid drinking tea at least 6 hours before sleeping.
2. Interactions with Medications and Supplements
Tea can affect the absorption of certain medications, such as ACE inhibitors for blood pressure and statins for cholesterol. It can also interfere with the absorption of vitamins and minerals like iron, calcium, and zinc. It's recommended to drink tea with water and avoid taking supplements for at least 2-3 hours after.
3. Oral and Dental Health
Tannins in tea can cause tooth discoloration and decay. Prevent this by rinsing your mouth with water after drinking tea and brushing your teeth properly.
Tea is a beloved drink for many, whether enjoyed with breakfast or as an afternoon snack. It also represents cultural traditions and customs across nations. This International Tea Day, let's promote the healthiest and happiest tea drinking habits!
BDMS Wellness Clinic
LINE: @bdmswellnessclinic or https://lin.ee/Z4So1yQ
Reference:
- Secretariat of the Intergovernmental Group on Tea (IGG/Tea). Current Global Market Situation and Emerging Issues [Internet]. Geneva: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations; 2022 Jan [cited 2024 May 23]. Available from: https://openknowledge.fao.org/server/api/core/bitstreams/0ec24489-f191-46ce-b4d8-485bffbcd7a2/content
- Theerapong Theppakorn. Tea (Camellia sinensis L.): Manufacturing and Chemical Compositions from Fermentation. Burapha Sci. J. 2012;17(2):189-96
- WebMD. Green Tea - Uses, Side Effects, and More [Internet]. [cited 2024 Apr 23]. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-17719/green-tea-oral/details
- Watts A, Addy M. Tooth discolouration and staining: a review of the literature. Br Dent J. 2001;190(6):309-16.
