Which tea won’t upset your stomach? Tea is not only delicious but also helps boost alertness, making it an indispensable daily beverage for many people. However, many people experience discomfort or even a harsh, irritating sensation in their stomach after drinking tea, which can be quite bothersome. Why does tea cause this stomach irritation, and are there teas that are easier on the stomach?
Why tea causes stomach discomfort and irritation
Stomach irritation from tea is mainly related to its components. Tea leaves contain stimulants like caffeine and theophylline, which can irritate the stomach lining and increase stomach acid production, leading to discomfort or a raw sensation in severe cases. This frequently happens when drinking tea on an empty stomach; with nothing in the stomach, the acid directly irritates the gastric mucosa, triggering that uncomfortable, harsh feeling. Certain teas contain higher amounts of polyphenols and tannic acid, making them more stimulating and even more likely to cause stomach upset.
Which tea is gentle on the stomach?
As long as a tea contains tannic acid and theophylline, there is a chance it may cause discomfort. Therefore, there is no tea that is 100% gentle on the stomach; you can only choose teas that are less stimulating and milder on the stomach. Dark teas, black teas, and heavily fermented oolong teas undergo a higher degree of fermentation, resulting in lower polyphenol content and correspondingly reduced stimulation. If you want a stomach-friendly tea, black tea or Pu-erh tea are great choices to start with.
How to prevent stomach discomfort and pain when drinking tea
In addition to choosing less irritating options like black tea, Pu-erh tea, and heavily fermented teas, taking a few precautions while drinking can also reduce stomach discomfort. First, avoid drinking tea on an empty stomach. Second, make sure the tea isn’t too hot. Finally, control your intake and avoid very strong tea. Since everyone’s tolerance level is different, you should adjust how much you drink based on your own body.