Let’s be real: a cup of milk tea is the perfect way to kick off the day. We all have our go-to recipes, right? Some stick to the classic mix of sugar, milk, tea powder, and water, while others like to jazz it up with cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, or fennel. But here’s the kicker—too much milk tea can actually be bad for your health! Our dietitian, Ms. Simrat Kathuria, breaks it down for us.
5 Reasons Why Too Much Milk Tea Can Be a Problem
According to Ms. Kathuria, if you’re downing more than 2-3 cups of milk tea a day, you might want to rethink that habit. “Each cup packs in calories, sugar, and caffeine, which can add up fast,” she explains. The exact amount that’s okay really depends on your lifestyle and how your body handles caffeine.
- Digestive Issues
Even though adding milk reduces the tannin in tea, there’s still enough to mess with your nutrient absorption, especially iron. Too much milk tea can lead to bloating, gas, and constipation. - Caffeine Dependence
Each cup has about 30-50 mg of caffeine. If you’re hitting over 400 mg a day, you might start feeling anxious or have trouble sleeping. Plus, too much caffeine can lead to jitters and restlessness. - Weight Gain
The WHO says women should stick to 25 grams of added sugar a day, while men should aim for 36 grams. Many milk teas are sweetened, and one cup can have 10-15 grams of sugar and 100-200 calories. If you’re drinking several cups, those calories can really add up, leading to weight gain and increasing your risk of diabetes and obesity. - Skin Problems
The dairy in milk tea can trigger acne for some people. When combined with sugar, it can worsen inflammation and lead to breakouts. - Bone Health
Drinking a lot of tea can cause calcium to leach from your bones due to the caffeine and fluoride, which can weaken them over time.
6 Tips to Cut Back on Milk Tea
Milk tea is awesome, but moderation is key! Here are six tips from the dietitian to help you enjoy your tea while keeping your health in check:
- Don’t Overdo It
Try to limit yourself to one or two cups a day. Cut back on the sugar or go for unsweetened options. - Go Herbal
Switch it up with herbal teas like green tea, peppermint, or chamomile. They’re healthier and usually have less caffeine. - Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water to balance out the sugar and caffeine from your milk tea. - Try Plant-Based Milk
Almond, soy, or oat milk can be lower in fat and might be easier on your digestion and skin than regular milk. - Eat a Balanced Diet
Load up on fruits, veggies, and whole grains to make up for any nutrients you might miss out on from too much milk tea. - Practice Moderation
Enjoy your milk tea as a treat rather than a daily habit.
“You can totally enjoy your milk tea without compromising your health by choosing better options, being mindful of how much you drink, and living a balanced lifestyle,” Ms. Kathuria wraps up.
