ISLAMABAD: That comforting evening ritual of dunking biscuits into a hot cup of tea may come at a cost far greater than a few extra calories—medical experts have warned that this seemingly harmless habit could wreak havoc on gut health, leading to bloating, gas, acidity, and a host of digestive problems.
According to health specialists, biscuits made with refined flour, added sugar, artificial sweeteners, vegetable oils, and other processed ingredients, when combined with the caffeine in tea, can negatively affect the digestive system.
The frequent consumption of tea and biscuits may damage the protective lining of the intestines, increase inflammation, reduce beneficial gut bacteria, and impair the body’s ability to absorb essential nutrients, experts cautioned.
Monsoon season amplifies digestive risks
Health professionals have raised particular concern about the habit during the monsoon season, when humid weather can slow digestion, encourage bacterial growth in food, reduce physical activity, and alter eating habits, making bloating and digestive discomfort even more common.
Experts urged people to watch for warning signs such as persistent bloating, excessive gas, fatigue, food sensitivities, or changes in bowel habits, as these may indicate underlying gut health problems requiring attention.
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The science behind the warning
Research suggests that excessive intake of refined flour can disrupt the balance of beneficial gut bacteria, while high sugar consumption may promote the growth of harmful bacteria and increase inflammation. Drinking tea on an empty stomach or consuming it excessively may also worsen acidity, creating a perfect storm for digestive distress.
Healthier alternatives for tea time
Instead of biscuits, experts recommend a range of healthier snacks to accompany evening tea, including:
- Roasted chickpeas
- Moong lentil chaat
- Mixed nuts
- Fresh fruit with yogurt
- Roasted fox nuts (makhana)
- Wholegrain vegetable sandwiches
Nutritionists also recommend foods that actively support gut health, such as homemade yogurt, fermented foods, bananas, oats, lentils, seasonal cooked vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Ginger tea, cumin water, and fennel water may also help improve digestion naturally.
When to seek medical help
Experts urged people to seek medical attention if bloating is accompanied by unexplained weight loss, prolonged diarrhoea, blood in the stool, or severe abdominal pain, as these symptoms could indicate a more serious gastrointestinal condition requiring prompt medical evaluation.
