Tea is a beverage that people often consume. Some people enjoy the subtle bitterness of tea, while others prefer to add a little sugar to remove the bitterness. But can honey be added to tea?
It is not advisable to add honey to tea
Both tea and honey have great health benefits, but they are not suitable for consumption together. This is because tea is alkaline, while honey is acidic. When mixed together, a chemical reaction occurs, causing precipitation. This is especially true for green tea. Green tea has a refreshing taste and a light green color, but when honey is added, the green tea turns brown or black.
Can tea with honey be consumed?
Honey is acidic and tea is alkaline, so a reaction is bound to occur when they are mixed. Brewing with hot water accelerates this reaction, causing the tea's color to change and precipitation to occur, making it unsuitable for consumption. Drinking this tea can cause discomfort in the gastrointestinal tract, especially for those with weak spleen and stomach function. It may also hinder the absorption of nutrients and even worsen symptoms of gastric disease.
How to reduce the bitterness of tea
Tea can be sweetened with a little sugar, but honey is not suitable. Adding sugar to tea has minimal impact on its color and can also help reduce the bitterness. However, excessive consumption of sweetened tea is not recommended.
Benefits of drinking tea
Tea is an essential part of people's lives, and many countries have a tradition of drinking tea. Tea has many benefits and is rightfully considered one of the three major beverages. The specific benefits of tea include improving memory, aiding in weight loss, enhancing muscle endurance, diuresis, eye and dental care, beauty and skincare, radiation protection, anti-bacterial and anti-cancer properties, and longevity.
Precautions for drinking tea
1. Tea has a strong stimulating effect on the gastrointestinal tract, so it is not advisable to consume tea on an empty stomach, except for Pu'er tea, which is known for its stomach-nourishing properties.
2. Tea has a strong stimulating effect on the central nervous system, which can cause excitement. Therefore, it is not recommended to consume tea before bed or at night to avoid insomnia.
3. Tea has a strong detoxifying effect, so it is not advisable to drink tea while taking medication as it may reduce the effectiveness of the medication and hinder the treatment of diseases.
