ICMR issues guidelines regarding consumption of tea and coffee
The two popular drinks that are ingrained in Indian culture, tea and coffee, should be used in moderation, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
In an effort to promote healthy eating practices throughout India, the medical body has unveiled 17 new dietary guidelines in collaboration with the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN). The importance of an active lifestyle and a balanced diet is emphasized in these guidelines.
The medical professionals acknowledged the cultural significance of tea and coffee but cautioned against consuming them in excessive amounts due to possible health risks.
ICMR researchers explained that tea and coffee “contain caffeine, which stimulates the central nervous system and induces physiological dependence”.
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Advices moderation in tea and coffee consumption
The guidelines also provide information on the amount of caffeine found in common drinks. They state that 80–120 mg of caffeine can be found in a 150 ml cup of brewed coffee, 50–65 mg in an instant coffee cup, and 30–65 mg in a tea cup.
The ICMR advises a daily intake of just 300mg of caffeine.
Because tea and coffee contain tannins that can lower the body’s absorption of iron, the medical authority also recommended abstaining from them for at least an hour before and after meals. Tannins bind to iron in the stomach, preventing the body from effectively absorbing it. Iron deficiency and health issues like anemia could result from this. According to it, drinking too much coffee can also result in high blood pressure and irregular heartbeats.
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However, the guidelines stated that drinking tea without milk offers several advantages, including better blood circulation and a lower risk of illnesses like stomach cancer and coronary artery disease.
Iron deficiency is commonly characterized by fatigue or low energy, dyspnea, headaches, especially during physical exertion, inexplicable weakness, fast heartbeat, pale skin, ice cravings, brittle nails, or hair loss.
The medical council also recommended cutting back on oil consumption and eating a diet high in fruits, vegetables, healthy grains, lean meats, and seafood.
They advised against using protein supplements and to reduce the amount of oil in their diet by eating less sugar and salt.
