“I’m a pharmacist – here’s the one food you should never have with a cup of tea”

If there is one thing to remember about British culture, it is the love of tea. Served with lots of milk and a little sugar, it is the star drink of the 5pm break. The ritual of “afternoon tea” is a custom established in 1840 by the Duchess of Bedford. Validated by Queen Victoria, it has become an unmissable event in the United Kingdom.

However, this love for tea pushes some people to consume this hot drink even during meals. But according to pharmacist and nutritionist Deborah Grayson, this habit is harmful depending on the planned menu.

It is not recommended to drink tea with foods rich in iron.

« It is not recommended to drink tea or coffee with a meal, especially if it contains iron-rich foods such as meat and green leafy vegetables. ” she said to the Mirror. « Chemicals in tea and coffee can prevent the absorption of iron, which is essential for the body’s ability to carry oxygen and many other functions. If you always drink tea with your meal, you may become anemic, especially if you are still menstruating. »

Anemia, a public health problem

According to theWorld Health Organization25% of the world’s population suffers from anemia, which is a lack of hemoglobin in the blood. This disease can be caused by an iron deficiency in the blood resulting from nutritional deficiencies, infections, chronic diseases, heavy menstruation, problems during pregnancy or by genetic diseases.

Iron is an essential element for many biological processes, explains Inserm. When it is present in too low a quantity in the body, there is no longer enough hemoglobin and red blood cells in the body to transport oxygen to the organs and tissues, which ultimately leads to failure of these organs.

Research suggests that tea and coffee contain chemicals that block iron absorption, including polyphenols. That’s why the expert advises against pairing them with iron-rich foods like red meat and green vegetables like spinach, broccoli, and kale.Health insurance On the other hand, it is recommended to take iron with orange juice, because vitamin C improves the absorption of iron.