Does black tea prevent you from sleeping?
Black tea contains theine (the caffeine in tea), which when gradually released into the body, has a stimulating effect. Although it is the same molecule as caffeine, it is four times less concentrated in black tea than in coffee. If theine gives us a little more energy, can it harm our sleep? This will depend on the individual: the stimulation felt, the rate of absorption and the tolerance are specific to each person. If you fear having trouble falling asleep, avoid drinking black tea six hours before your planned bedtime. In the evening, prefer the maid organic herbal tea or infusion ! At Kusmi, the choice is varied and you can find infusions as spicy as our black teas.
To find out more, do not hesitate to read our article on tea and caffeine: is tea a stimulant?
Does black tea cause nausea?
When black tea is drunk on an empty stomach, upon waking up, it could cause nausea in rare people. The fault of the tannins which give tea its astringency, when it is infused too long. Present in many plants, these small molecules are used by plants as means of defense against microbes. Once captured by the olfactory receptors of the tongue, they produce a sensation of contraction on the mucous membranes... which can leave an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Note that this happens less often with black tea, than with green, which is richer in tannin. The advice: watch the infusion time of your tea (we often tend to infuse it too long) or remember to eat when you drink your first cup of tea of the day.
Is black tea a diuretic?
Good news: black tea hydrates the body, stimulates the functioning of the kidneys, while promoting the elimination of toxins. Its diuretic effect on the body consists of eliminating more water and salt than usual. Consequence of this avoidance of salt: blood pressure drops, which is good for our cardiovascular system. Except that by eliminating water, you can also become dehydrated. It is therefore recommended not to drink only tea during the day, but to alternate with water, which is more hydrating in the long term.
Does black tea constipate?
No, it’s quite the opposite a priori. Consumption of black tea is said to be good for digestion and transit. Drinking black tea provides water to the body, and staying hydrated is a good way to prevent constipation. In addition, theine (or caffeine, because it is the same molecule) contained in black tea is known to have a laxative effect: it accelerates intestinal transit. Finally, we know that stress can also cause digestive disorders, and theanine, an amino acid present in black tea, would produce a relaxing effect on the brain.
Does black tea block iron absorption?
Yes, this is one of the most well-known interferences: a very large quantity of tea could inhibit the absorption of iron by the body. If you are iron deficient, we recommend that you take your food supplements with water. Same thing during meals, if you have to follow a diet rich in iron (lentils, white beans, red meat, seafood, etc.). Drink water at the table and keep tea as a drink at the end or outside of the meal. It will be more effective!
Does black tea yellow your teeth?
Like coffee, black tea tends to yellow your teeth. The fault is tannins, these small molecules which have health benefits (they destroy certain oral bacteria in particular), but which in return color the cups of tea. To avoid any marks on your teeth, remember to drink a glass of water or rinse your mouth after drinking black tea. It is also recommended to brush your teeth two to three times a day, after meals, and at least 30 minutes after drinking a cup of tea.
Should black tea be avoided during pregnancy?
No, tea is not prohibited for pregnant women. But doctors generally recommend limiting consumption to two or three cups per day (it depends a little on the size of the cup!).
Depending on the individual, black tea can therefore have undesirable effects when drunk in too large quantities. But this consumption is also accompanied by numerous health benefits. Black tea therefore has nothing to envy of its cousins green teas and white teas.