Tea is an ancient beverage with numerous virtues, but did you know that the timing of your consumption can influence its effects on your body? Let’s explore the best moments of the day to enjoy your favorite tea and fully benefit from its advantages.
The morning: A gentle wake-up with black or green tea
Starting your day with a cup of black or green tea is an excellent choice. These teas, rich in caffeine, provide a gentle and gradual stimulation, ideal for awakening your mind without the “jolt” often associated with coffee.
Black tea, being bolder, is perfect for those seeking sustained energy right from the morning. Green tea, on the other hand, offers much-needed hydration and beneficial antioxidants for your health. However, it’s important to wait at least 30 minutes after breakfast before drinking tea, as it can reduce the absorption of iron from food.
Additionally, be careful not to drink your tea too hot. Excessive consumption of very hot beverages can irritate the esophageal lining and, over time, increase the risk of certain digestive diseases.
Mid-morning: Maintaining focus with green or oolong tea
Around 10 a.m., a cup of green tea or oolong tea can help maintain your concentration and prevent the mid-morning slump.
Oolong tea, which is semi-oxidized, combines the benefits of both green and black teas, offering a unique flavor and moderate stimulating properties. These teas contain enough caffeine to keep you alert without causing nervousness.
After lunch: Facilitating digestion with green or Pu-erh tea
After your midday meal, green tea is particularly beneficial for aiding digestion. Its antioxidant properties help break down fats and improve metabolism.
Pu-erh tea, a fermented tea from China, is also known for its digestive and detoxifying virtues. However, it’s advisable to wait between 30 minutes and 1 hour after eating before drinking it, as tea contains tannins that can inhibit iron absorption, an essential nutrient for the body.
Mid-afternoon: A boost of energy with maté or black tea
Around 4 p.m., if you’re feeling a dip in energy, a cup of maté could be the solution. Originating from South America, maté is known for its stimulating properties and ability to improve concentration.
Black tea is also an excellent option for a late-afternoon boost. However, be sure not to drink these beverages too late in the day to avoid disrupting your sleep.
The evening: Relaxing with caffeine-free infusions
In the evening, it’s best to avoid tea containing caffeine, as it can negatively impact your sleep quality. Instead, opt for caffeine-free infusions such as chamomile, verbena, or rooibos.
These soothing drinks promote relaxation and prepare your body for restorative sleep. Rooibos, for example, is rich in antioxidants and caffeine-free, making it an ideal drink for the evening.
Listen to your body and adjust your tea consumption
Every moment of the day offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a cup of tea tailored to your needs. Whether it’s to wake you up, enhance your concentration, aid digestion, or help you unwind, there’s a tea or infusion for every occasion.
The key is to listen to your body and follow a few good practices:
✔️ Don’t drink your tea too hot to avoid irritating your digestive system.
✔️ Avoid drinking tea during meals, as it can reduce iron absorption. Instead, wait 30 minutes to 1 hour after eating.
✔️ Adjust your tea choices based on your lifestyle and energy needs.
