Khaberni - Many circulate repeated warnings about the dangers of tea with milk, considering this mixture, which millions are accustomed to during breakfast, represents a health risk affecting the absorption of calcium and iron, but what is the truth of these warnings scientifically?
Limited effect on nutrients
Dr. Shaimaa Hakim, a specialist in therapeutic nutrition and public health, revealed in statements to 24 the impact of tea with milk on the absorption of nutrients, explaining that tea contains substances called tannins that primarily affect the absorption of iron found in legumes and plants.
Hakim clarified that tannins do not affect the type of iron found in meat, chicken, or fish, indicating that their effect on calcium is very weak, which means that fears of losing calcium when drinking tea with milk are exaggerated.
Practical recommendations for optimal benefit
The nutrition expert confirmed that tea with milk is not generally harmful, but those aiming to improve calcium absorption, especially the elderly at risk of osteoporosis, should separate tea from calcium meals by one hour or drink tea with a lighter concentration.
She pointed to the negative impact when the amount of tea is large and strongly concentrated, confirming that moderation in quantity and concentration makes the impact very small and does not warrant concern.
Balance is the key
Hakim emphasized that proper nutrition depends on balance, quantity, timing, and not on random prohibition, explaining that complete prohibition of foods and drinks people are accustomed to may be more dangerous than their limited effect.
Hakim emphasized that drinking tea with milk remains an acceptable choice for most people, with moderation in quantity and attention to groups that need special care in the absorption of calcium and iron, assuring that correct nutritional awareness depends on precise scientific information, not on exaggerated warnings.
