For many in India, the day doesn't truly begin without a steaming cup of chai or a strong brew of coffee. These beverages are deeply woven into the fabric of our daily lives, offering that essential energy kick. But have you ever wondered about the real, physiological consequences of consuming five cups of either drink every single day?
To demystify the long-term effects, we consulted Dr Amit Saraf, Director of Internal Medicine at Jupiter Hospital in Thane. He provided a detailed breakdown of what a month of such a habit can do to your body, highlighting the distinct impacts of coffee and tea.
The Immediate Buzz vs. Sustained Calm
Dr Saraf immediately pointed out a fundamental difference between the two popular drinks. Coffee contains a higher concentration of caffeine, which is responsible for the quick, sharp energy surge that coffee drinkers crave. Tea, on the other hand, has less caffeine and contains a unique compound called L-theanine.
"L-theanine helps in calming your mind," Dr Saraf explained. This amino acid promotes relaxation without causing drowsiness, which is why the energy from tea is often described as more steady and smooth, unlike the sometimes jittery rush from coffee.
One Month Later: The Body's Adaptation
So, what is the outcome after consistently drinking five cups a day for about a month? According to Dr Saraf, your body begins to build a tolerance. "Your body can become accustomed to the caffeine, so you may need more to feel the same effect," he stated.
For those on a five-cup-a-day coffee regimen, the consequences can be more pronounced. Excessive coffee consumption can increase stress hormones, leading to feelings of restlessness and anxiety. Perhaps most crucially, it can significantly disrupt sleep patterns. Many people experience lighter sleep or wake up feeling tired and unrefreshed, even after a full night's rest.
The experience with tea is often different. "Due to the presence of L-theanine, even several cups of tea a day usually provide steady energy without causing anxiety or sleep problems like coffee sometimes does," Dr Saraf elaborated.
Beyond Caffeine: Nutrient Absorption and Hydration
The impact isn't limited to just energy and sleep. Dr Saraf warned that excessive intake of either beverage can interfere with how your body absorbs vital nutrients.
"Coffee can make it harder to absorb calcium and, if you drink it after a meal, it may reduce iron absorption," he said. The situation with tea is similar, especially for black tea. Tea contains tannins that can bind to iron from plant-based foods, making it harder for your body to utilise this essential mineral.
Both drinks also have mild diuretic effects, meaning they can prompt your body to lose more water. However, Dr Saraf reassured that this will not lead to dehydration as long as you drink enough plain water throughout the day to balance it out.
Finding Your Safe Limit
The key, as with most things in life, is moderation. Dr Saraf reiterated that the most important thing is to enjoy these drinks sensibly and ensure adequate water intake.
He provided a clear guideline for safe consumption: Most adults can safely consume up to 300 to 400 mg of caffeine per day. This translates to approximately 3 to 4 cups of coffee or 6 to 8 cups of tea.
Exceeding this limit can have immediate unpleasant effects. "Drinking more than required can temporarily raise your blood pressure, cause your heart to beat faster, or leave you feeling jittery and stressed," Dr Saraf cautioned.
To avoid these problems, he offered practical advice: Try spacing your cups through the day, avoid caffeine at night, and opt for herbal or decaf options in the latter part of the day. Most importantly, pay close attention to the signals your body is sending. If you start experiencing sleep disturbances, racing thoughts, or an upset stomach, it is a clear sign that you need to cut back.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information from the public domain and an interview with an expert. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any new health routine or making significant changes to your diet.
