Many elderly people have such a hobby: leisurely brewing a cup of hot, strong tea after meals at home, sometimes even chewing a few tea leaves, instantly feeling more energetic. However, Dr. Li Xingjuan, a attending physician in the Geriatrics Department of Zhongda Hospital affiliated with Southeast University, warns that long-term consumption of strong tea can seriously affect iron absorption, leading to anemia and malnutrition in the elderly.

Mr. Liu, 75, recently often felt dizzy, had blurred vision, became short of breath immediately upon activity, and suffered from loss of appetite. A comprehensive examination at the Geriatrics Department of Zhongda Hospital showed no signs of digestive tract tumors. Finally, a blood test identified the "culprit": iron-deficiency anemia. Upon inquiry, it was found that the elderly man's greatest hobby in recent years has been drinking strong tea—he would fill half a cup with tea leaves for a single brew to satisfy his craving. Lately, his habit intensified, brewing 4-5 cups of strong tea daily. Dr. Li Xingjuan explains that tea contains a large amount of tannic acid. After consuming substantial amounts of strong tea, the tannic acid binds with iron to form an insoluble substance, hindering iron absorption and ultimately leading to anemia.