Do you love tea? You’re not the only one. It’s the second most consumed beverage in the world. Water takes first place.1 Sadly, some teas are more toxic than others. This can be dangerous if you drink it on the daily. Plus, you won’t know by taste or smell, so it’s hard to notice. A study in Food Research International looked into the issue. Researchers focused on human exposure making the results worth considering. Here’s what they found out and what you can do about it:
The Facts About Tea
1. Fluoride
According to the study, some teas have a surprisingly high fluoride content. And while this mineral is necessary, it’s possible to overdo it. One liter of tea has 6 mg fluoride. However, the daily recommended intake is 4 mg.2 If you drink lots of tea and water, a natural source of fluoride, it’ll quickly add up. Remember, even foods cooked in fluoridated water will also contain fluoride.3
2. Quality
The most fluoride was found in cheaper teas. This includes leading supermarket products! Think of everyday brands that you are familiar with. The cheaper the tea, the more likely it has fluoride. Quality matters.4
3. Absorption
Consuming a nutrient is one thing. Yet, it’s vital to think about how your body absorbs it. About 75 to 120 percent of the fluoride you ingest is available for absorption. If you’re fasting, it increases to 150 percent.5 Keep this in mind if you drink tea before meals.
4. Side Effects
Over consumption of fluoride is rare.6 But if you drink tea all day, every day, it’s possible. Excess intake can lead to dental fluorosis, a condition marked by white speckling and mottling of teeth.
Even your bone tissue mineral balance may change. Additional symptoms of mild toxicity include nausea, stomach pain, and vomiting.7
What You Can Do About It:
1. Drink Loose Tea
Tea bags are convenient, but they’re not as fresh. Drink loose tea when possible. It’s the safer bet, since older tea has more fluoride.8
2. Buy High-Quality Tea
The extra cash will be worth it. High-quality teas are made from the youngest leaves of a plant, making them fresher. In turn, your fluoride intake will be less.9
3. Switch It Up
Green, black, oolong, and pu-erh tea are most likely to have fluoride. White tea doesn’t have as much. You don’t need to avoid one or the other, though. Keep things diverse and drink a variety of teas.10
4. Check Labels
Tea is no different than fruits and veggies. If it was grown locally, you can bet it’s fresher! Look for teas that were grown in your town, city, or region. Most importantly, check expiration dates.
5. Choose Organic
Again, tea is like fruits and vegetables. Organic options are your best bet. This is how you know that the tea was grown responsibly, without extra pesticides or chemicals.11
Don’t be afraid of drinking tea. It’s tasty, easy to make, and super healthy. Tea has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and even cavities. You can thank the fluoride for that.12 It’s all about drinking the right kind. Avoid store brands, as these are the most likely to have fluoride. Stick to high-quality loose leaf brands.
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