There are people who are used to drinking tea and then saving the bag to prepare another one later, but is it dangerous for health to reuse it? This is what experts say.
For many people, drinking a cup of herbal tea or tea It’s a must-do of the day. Whether at breakfast, after lunch or at eleven o’clock, this hot drink promises to relieve various symptoms, from stomach heaviness to giving us a little energy to continue the day.
And, among the culture of drinking tea in the form of small bags per serving, There are those who usually reuse the same bag once, twice, three and even four times, after soaking it in hot water.
ButIs it healthy? Could it have a negative impact on health? Is it hygienic?
Is it safe for your health to reuse tea bags?
Tea and herbal teas are a very convenient way to stay hydrated, but also to enjoy the health benefits provided by the leaves of different plants.
In the same vein, regarding the habit of reusing tea bags several times, Patricia Medvesck, nutritionist at Wellness Technologies Chile said in a conversation with Biobiochile that It is not recommended to do so.
First because Once the tea is steeped in hot water, “it begins to lose its antioxidant properties and the process of decomposition of the leaf begins.”
The expert assured that It is better to “consume the tea and eliminate the teabag, even if it is not economical”. It is always the first cup that benefits from all the advantages.
That is to say that Every time you reuse the tea bag, its nutritional content and quality begins to decrease significantly. : the first infusion will extract most of the flavor, properties and nutrients, and the second will no longer have these benefits.
And for tea lovers, This will also impact the smell and taste.
According to Chinese tea specialty store Chen Sheng Hao Tea, There are also health and safety considerations when reusing tea bags: “It is essential to consider the potential for bacterial growth and degradation of tea compounds.” they said on their page.
The first thing is thatIf you allow several hours to elapse between using a tea bag and reusing it for a new cup, bacterial growth may occur due to moisture. : “It’s a breeding ground for bacteria. After the first use, a tea bag becomes damp.
“If it is not stored properly, it can harbor bacteria.”
To be able to minimize the risk of it becoming damp and bacteria growing inside the store recommended:
- Dry the tea bag well after first use.
- Store it in a clean, airtight container.
- Use the sachet within 24 hours maximum.
In addition to bacteria, Mold can also start to grow on a damp tea bag. This can happen in particular if, after use, the tea bag is kept for too long and/or kept in an environment that is too humid.
This would result in a significant health risk. Mold can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, however, it can sometimes turn into a mycotoxin and make the person who consumes it seriously ill.
“Inspect the tea bag for signs of mold before reusing.” they warned.
For all of the above, The safest option will always be to throw away the tea bag after using it once.
Health Benefits of Drinking Tea
There are those who prefer infusions that do not contain tea, such as chamomile, boldo, mint, matico, anise, among others.
Nevertheless, Tea itself is one of the most popular beverages in the world, rivaling even coffee.
In addition to its exquisite flavor, tea has many health benefits, depending on its type. In general, it is rich in vitamins and minerals, contains few calories and is an optimal source of antioxidants, anti-inflammatories and anticancer agents.
And, for those who need a boost of energy for their days, Tea also contains caffeine, which, unlike coffee, has a slower effect, as it is absorbed by the body over time.
In this line, Here are the most popular teas and their specific benefits:
- Black tea. It has an intense flavor and is one of those with the most caffeine to start the day. It is usually the most oxidized tea of all and stands out for its components such as flavonoids and theaflavin, two powerful antioxidants.
- Red tea. Its flavor is more earthy, but its real difference lies in the way it is prepared: it is a product of the fermentation of green tea leaves. Its contribution to health is that it is usually an ally for those who want to lose weight, it prevents water retention and also helps maintain balanced digestion thanks to its astringent compounds.
- Green tea. A favorite for many, this tea has a fresher flavor than black or red. It is rich in antioxidants, helps increase water intake, and different studies have shown it to have positive effects on cardiovascular health. It has a lighter but effective caffeine content, for those who prefer a milder stimulation.
- White tea. This infusion is the one with the mildest flavor, but it nevertheless has a great contribution of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory elements. It also does not stain the teeth and can be the ideal drink for those who want to start incorporating tea into their daily diet.
Source: Latercera
I’m Scott Moore, a professional writer and journalist based in the US. I’ve been writing for various publications for over 8 years now, and have been working as an author at athletistic for the past five years. My work has been featured by some of the leading sports websites and magazines across Europe.
