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The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) advises moderate consumption of tea and coffee, two popular beverages closely associated with Indian culture. To promote a healthy diet in India, the health body recently released 17 new dietary guidelines in collaboration with the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN). These recommendations emphasize the importance of a varied diet and an active lifestyle. Recognizing its cultural significance, medical experts warn against excessive consumption of tea and coffee for health reasons. ICMR researchers explained that tea and coffee "contain caffeine, which stimulates the central nervous system and causes physiological dependence." The guidelines provide information on the caffeine content of popular drinks: 80-120 mg in a 150 ml brewed coffee. Caffeine: 50-65 mg in instant coffee and 30-65 mg in tea. The ICMR recommends 300 mg of caffeine per day.

The health establishment advised to avoid tea and coffee for at least an hour before and after meals, as they contain tannins that reduce the absorption of iron in the body. Tannins bind iron in the stomach, which makes it difficult for the body to absorb iron properly. This can lead to health problems such as iron deficiency and anemia. It has been said that excessive coffee consumption can lead to high blood pressure and heart arrhythmias. The guidelines state that drinking tea without milk has many benefits, such as: B. improving blood circulation and reducing the risk of diseases such as coronary heart disease and stomach cancer. They also recommended a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and seafood, while limiting oil, sugar and salt intake.