Tea can be a comforting part of the day and it contributes to fluid intake. The useful questions are less about finding a miracle brew and more about caffeine, added sugar, timing and how your body responds.
Tea still counts as fluid
Water remains the best everyday drink, but tea and coffee also add to your daily fluid intake. Plain tea is usually low in kilojoules. Sweetened bottled teas, syrups and large amounts of honey or sugar can change that, so check the label or keep additions modest.
Know where caffeine is hiding
Black, green and oolong teas naturally contain caffeine. The amount varies with the tea, serving size and brewing time. Caffeine can increase alertness, but some people notice anxiety, a racing heartbeat, reflux or disturbed sleep. Healthdirect advises that healthy adults can generally have about 400 mg a day from all sources; individual needs can be lower.
- Choose decaffeinated or caffeine-free herbal infusions later in the day if sleep is affected.
- Shorter brewing may reduce caffeine in ordinary tea.
- Reduce caffeine gradually if you regularly drink a lot, because stopping suddenly can cause headaches and tiredness.
Herbal infusions need sensible care
Peppermint, ginger, chamomile and other herbal infusions can offer variety, but “natural” does not guarantee that a product is suitable for everyone. Herbs can cause allergies or interact with medicines. Pregnant or breastfeeding people, children, and anyone taking regular medicines should ask a pharmacist or health professional before using concentrated herbal products or medicinal amounts.
Enjoy tea for its flavour, warmth and place in a daily routine. For hydration, keep water easy to reach and let tea complement it.
General information only. This article does not replace medical advice.