Why tea and coffee must be consumed 1 hour before/after meal

In a recent development, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has revised dietary guidelines, cautioning against the consumption of tea or coffee before or after meals. This new advisory aims to address misconceptions and highlight potential health risks associated with these popular beverages, particularly concerning iron absorption and anaemia.
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Traditionally, many Indian households have incorporated tea or coffee into their mealtime routines, often believing it aids in digestion or helps cleanse excessive oil from the throat and chest.However, the updated guidelines shed light on the adverse effects of consuming these beverages around mealtime.
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The ICMR guidelines on tea/coffee consumption
Tea and coffee are popular beverages known for their caffeine content. A cup (150ml) of brewed coffee typically contains 80–120mg of caffeine, while instant coffee has 50–65 mg. On the other hand, tea contains approximately 30–65 mg of caffeine per cup. These variations in caffeine levels highlight the importance of moderation in consumption to avoid potential adverse effects on health.


According to the revised ‘Dietary Guidelines for Indians’, released by the ICMR, tea and coffee contain tannins that can interfere with iron absorption. As iron is essential for blood production, any hindrance in its absorption can lead to a deficiency, resulting in anaemia. Therefore, the guidelines recommend avoiding tea or coffee ‘at least for one hour before and after meals’ to ensure optimal iron absorption and prevent potential health complications.
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Furthermore, the guidelines emphasise the importance of consuming tea without milk, particularly for individuals who enjoy green or black tea. Tea contains compounds like theobromine and theophylline, which promote blood circulation and offer potential health benefits such as reducing the risk of coronary heart disease and stomach cancer. These benefits are best obtained when tea is consumed without milk and in moderation.
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What is the recommended intake?
While the ICMR does not advocate complete avoidance of tea or coffee, it emphasises moderation and awareness of caffeine content. Both tea and coffee contain caffeine, which stimulates the central nervous system and can lead to physiological dependence. The guidelines advise limiting caffeine intake to prevent adverse effects, with a recommended daily limit of 300 mg.

In addition to concerns about iron absorption and caffeine intake, the guidelines also address the potential health benefits and risks associated with tea and coffee consumption. While tea without milk offers health benefits like promoting blood circulation, consuming high levels of coffee has been linked to conditions like high blood pressure and an abnormal heartbeat.
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Overall, the revised dietary guidelines underscore the importance of balanced nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices. In addition to cautioning against tea or coffee consumption around meals, the guidelines advocate for a diverse diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and seafood. By following these recommendations, individuals can prioritise their health and well-being while enjoying their favourite beverages responsibly.
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