Drinking too much Tea

For years I have been following a tradition, drinking a big cup of hot tea with bread and cold cuts for a light dinner.

Not good, as I had to find out.

"There is a link between this and needing a colonoscopy."
Tea has tannins, oxalates, & phytates, which bind iron, decreasing absorption, causing iron deficiency anemia, causing doctors to order colonoscopies to look for bleeds.

Tea tannins, oxalates, and phytates are compounds found in tea and other plant-based foods and beverages. 

They can have both positive and negative effects on health, depending on the context and consumption levels. Here's an overview of each of these compounds:

  1. Tannins:

    • What are they? Tannins are a class of polyphenolic compounds found in various plants, including tea leaves. They are responsible for the astringency or bitterness of tea.
    • Health Effects: Tannins have both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for health. They may help protect against certain chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. However, excessive consumption of tannins can interfere with iron absorption and may cause digestive discomfort in some individuals.
    • Tea Types: The tannin content varies among different types of tea. Black tea generally contains more tannins than green or white tea.
  2. Oxalates (Oxalic Acid):

    • What are they? Oxalates are natural compounds found in many plant foods, including tea leaves. They can combine with calcium to form insoluble crystals, often causing kidney stones in susceptible individuals.
    • Health Effects: High consumption of oxalate-rich foods or beverages can increase the risk of kidney stone formation, especially in people prone to kidney stones. It's essential to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated to reduce this risk.
    • Tea Types: The oxalate content in tea is relatively low compared to certain other foods like spinach or rhubarb, but it's still a consideration for individuals with a history of kidney stones.
  3. Phytates (Phytic Acid):

    • What are they? Phytates are naturally occurring compounds found in plant-based foods, including tea. They are often considered antinutrients because they can reduce the absorption of certain minerals like iron, zinc, and calcium.
    • Health Effects: Phytates can have both positive and negative effects. On one hand, they can inhibit the absorption of minerals, which might be a concern for people with low mineral intake. On the other hand, they have antioxidant properties and may have potential health benefits, such as reducing the risk of certain cancers.
    • Tea Types: The phytate content in tea is generally not very high, and the health impact is likely to be minimal for most people who consume a balanced diet.
In summary, tea contains these compounds naturally, and they can have varying effects on health. It's essential to consider individual factors, such as dietary choices, health conditions, and personal tolerance when assessing the impact of these compounds. Moderation and a balanced diet are key to enjoying the potential health benefits of tea while minimizing any adverse effects.

 

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