The idea of reheating tea can make a lot of people scoff. And with good reason. When tea cools down and is reheated, its delicate flavours often change, resulting in a more bitter and flat taste. This happens because the essential oils in tea, responsible for its unique aroma and flavour, evaporate when exposed to heat for prolonged periods. Moreover, reheating can cause over-extraction of the tannins, leading to a stronger, more astringent taste that may not be pleasant.
But did you know reheating tea can also bad harmful to your health? Gut health expert and author Dimple Jangda took to Instagram to share how 'overcooked' chai can affect your health.
As per Jangda, reheating chai could be a contributing factor to iron deficiency. She notes that tea leaves contain tannins, the compounds responsible for chai's characteristic colour and flavour. However, when you reheat chai, the concentration of tannins increases. This can be problematic because tannins interfere with the absorption of nutrients from other foods consumed throughout the day.
The expert shares that the presence of these compounds could reduce iron absorption by as much as 30-40%, potentially leading to iron deficiency over time.
Moreover, Jangda says that reheating chai can also cause acidity and stomach-related issues. She says, "When we overcook the tea leaves, they become acidic in nature, especially when mixed with milk."
This acidic compound can trigger heartburn, acid reflux, and a burning sensation in the stomach, causing discomfort throughout the day. To prevent this, consider preparing tea without milk or opting for lactose-free alternatives.
Reheating tea can also lead to dehydration due to its caffeine content. When tea is overcooked, the caffeine concentration rises. According to Dimple, caffeine acts as a mild diuretic, causing increased urination. As a result, you may find yourself visiting the bathroom more frequently, which can leave you feeling dehydrated.
Jangda advises against reheating tea, recommending that it be consumed fresh instead. She suggests brewing tea leaves for only 3-5 minutes to get the best flavour. She also recommends skipping dairy and opting for lactose-free alternatives such as almond or coconut milk.
For a healthier choice, she encourages switching to herbal teas like chamomile, hibiscus, dandelion, or green tea. These varieties have fewer tannins and provide more health benefits than regular tea, helping to detoxify the body and flush out harmful toxins.