Bad news for tea and coffee lovers in ICMR's new dietary guidelines

ICMR advises a daily consumption limit of just 300 mg of caffeine

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has issued a new set of dietary guidelines to promote healthier eating habits. The 17 guidelines, issued in collaboration with National Institute of Nutrition (NIM), advise caution in the consumption of tea and coffee.

The study highlighted that these two popular beverages contain high levels of caffeine and consumption of more-than-desired levels could lead to potential health risks. The research noted that caffeine can stimulate the central nervous system, which could lead to physiological dependence.

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ICMR in its guidelines said that these two beverages have high amount of caffeine- a 150ml cup of brewed coffee has 80–120 mg of caffeine, instant coffee 50–65mg, while tea contains 30–65mg of caffeine. The government body advises a daily consumption limit of just 300 mg of caffeine.

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In addition, consumption of tea and coffee should be avoided at least an hour before and after meals, the government agency said in the guidelines. ICMR reasoned that the consumption of these beverages before or after meals could limit the absorption of iron in the body because of the presence of tannins, which is a type of polyphenolic biomolecules mostly found in plant foods.

Higher levels of tannins could lead to iron deficiency and anaemia, the study said.

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However, ICMR said black tea, or tea without milk, can be beneficial as it can help with better blood circulation and lower risk of coronary artery disease and stomach cancer. The agency also encouraged diets rich in fruits, vegetables, lean meats, seafoods, whole grains. It also asked consumers to avoid diets rich in oil, sugar and salt.