"Better go without alcohol for life than without tea for three meals." Tea culture has a long history in China, and drinking tea has always been an important way of health preservation. However, tea must be consumed in moderation; otherwise, it may not only be ineffective for health but could also lead to "tea drunkenness" over time.
Huang Suiping, director of the Second Internal Medicine Department at Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, explained that "The Classic of Tea" by Lu Yu from the Tang Dynasty is the world's first monograph on tea. Green tea helps clear heat and promote urination, so people with a cool constitution should not drink too much; black tea has strong effects on refreshing the mind and lowering blood lipids; scented tea aids in relieving depression and is suitable for times of low mood; oolong tea can help with fat reduction and weight loss.
Tea Drinking for "Self-Cultivation"
The benefits of drinking tea for health preservation actually go beyond the effects of the tea itself. Tea tasting has become an art in China. People gather in tea houses, with "boiling water and fragrant tea," chatting freely to relieve stress and release pent-up emotions, making it a great form of "psychological therapy." The rules and methods formed during tea drinking have been passed down through dynasties, embodying the essence of traditional culture. Thus, tea tasting naturally cultivates character, broadens the mind, and nurtures the spirit.
Dr. Zhang Huizhu from Guangzhou First Military Medical University said that drinking strong tea on an empty stomach, after a light meal, or for those unaccustomed to tea can lead to tea drunkenness. Symptoms include palpitations, dizziness, weakness, unsteadiness while standing, unsteady walking, gastrointestinal discomfort, and hunger.
In terms of tea varieties, high-quality oolong tea is more likely to cause tea drunkenness; in terms of drinking methods, consuming large amounts of strong "Kung Fu tea" can easily lead to tea drunkenness; from a physical perspective, those with kidney deficiency or weak constitutions are more susceptible. Frequent tea drunkenness can cause a deficiency of vitamin B1, leading to loss of appetite and declining health. Dr. Zhang recommends eating meals, candies, or fruits immediately after tea drunkenness to alleviate symptoms.
As mentioned, tea should not be too strong. Tea contains caffeine, and excessive consumption can stimulate the brain, especially for those with poor sleep. Additionally, pregnant women, people prone to constipation, and those with neurosis should avoid drinking tea. Tea is also unsuitable when taking Chinese herbal tonics.
Timing is important for tea drinking. After meals or at noon is ideal, while before meals or late at night is unsuitable. It is best not to drink tea on an empty stomach, as it can irritate the gastric mucosa. Having a light snack beforehand is recommended. Tea should not be left standing for too long and is best consumed immediately after brewing. If left for too long, not only do the aroma and nutrients dissipate, but bacteria can also multiply. Generally, it should not exceed 12 hours. People with weak spleen and stomach should avoid green tea, while those with a hot constitution should not choose black tea.