Is Drinking Tea at Night Harmful to the Body?

Update Date: 2024-12-05 Source: Network

Patient Consultation Case

A few days ago, I treated a 63-year-old patient who had suffered from hypertension for many years and had a habit of drinking tea in the evening. Recently, he found himself experiencing frequent symptoms such as dizziness and nausea, prompting him to seek medical attention. After a detailed inquiry, I learned that he had been drinking several cups of strong tea before bedtime these days. Actually, drinking too much strong tea in the evening is generally not recommended. Here, I will explain the hazards of drinking tea at night:

1. The caffeine contained in tea stimulates the central nervous system, leading to excitement and insomnia. The evening is an important period for the body to rest and recover. If caffeine is consumed at this time, it will interfere with normal sleep rhythms and affect sleep quality. In the long run, this may lead to neurasthenia, memory decline, and other issues.

2. Excessive intake may also irritate the gastrointestinal tract, causing stomach pain, diarrhea, and other digestive discomforts. The body's metabolic rate is relatively slower in the evening, and the digestive capacity of the gastrointestinal tract is weaker. Drinking tea at this time may increase the burden on the stomach and intestines.

Regarding this patient's situation, I reminded him to pay attention to the following points:

1. Pay attention to tea drinking time: Try to avoid drinking tea within one to two hours before bedtime to prevent the caffeine in tea from affecting sleep. Tea drinking can be scheduled between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

2. Drink in moderation: The caffeine and tea polyphenols in tea are highly irritant. Excessive consumption may lead to insomnia, palpitations, stomach pain, and other discomforting symptoms. It is recommended to drink 2-3 cups of tea per day to avoid overconsumption.

Drinking tea in the evening can indeed cause a series of adverse effects on the body. Try to avoid drinking tea close to bedtime. If necessary, consult a professional to develop a suitable beverage plan based on individual constitution and lifestyle habits.