New Delhi: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has advised moderation in the consumption of tea and coffee, ( Tea-Coffee) Tea-Coffee two beloved beverages deeply ingrained in Indian culture. Recently, it has launched 17 new dietary guidelines in partnership with the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), which aims to encourage healthy eating habits across India.
Medical experts have also warned against excessive consumption of tea and coffee due to potential health concerns. ICMR researchers reported that tea and coffee “contain caffeine, which stimulates the central nervous system and induces physical dependence.
The guidelines address the caffeine content of popular beverages. Given that a 150 ml cup of brewed coffee contains 80 – 120 mg of caffeine, instant coffee contains 50 – 65 mg and tea contains 30 – 65 mg. ICMR recommends consuming only 300 mg of caffeine per day.
ICMR also warned avoiding tea or coffee for at least an hour before and after meals, as these contain tannins, which can reduce the absorption of iron in the body. Tannins bind with iron in the stomach, making it difficult for the body to absorb the iron properly. This can cause health problems like iron deficiency and anemia. It says that excessive coffee consumption can also cause high blood pressure and heart irregularities.
The guidelines state that drinking tea without milk improves blood circulation and reduces the risk of conditions such as coronary artery disease and colon cancer. ICMR recommends a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat meat and seafood while limiting sugar and salt intake.