What should not be consumed with red tea when eating goji berries?
Sep 27, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, the reasons why goji berries should not be consumed with black tea usually include: tannins binding with proteins, tannins inhibiting iron absorption, oxalic acid reacting with vitamin C, reduced medicinal efficacy, and potential issues such as gastric ulcers. Black tea contains abundant tannins, while goji berries are rich in protein. Tannins can bind with proteins to form complexes that are difficult to digest, potentially affecting the normal functioning of the digestive system.
Under normal circumstances, the reasons why goji berries should not be consumed together with black tea usually include tannin-protein binding, tannin inhibition of iron absorption, oxalic acid reaction with vitamin C, reduced medicinal efficacy, and potential risks for individuals with gastric ulcers. It is recommended that patients seek timely medical attention to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Specific explanations are as follows:
1. Tannin-Protein Binding: Black tea contains abundant tannins, while goji berries are rich in protein. Tannins can bind with proteins to form complexes that are difficult to digest, potentially impairing normal digestive system function.
2. Tannin Inhibition of Iron Absorption: The iron content in goji berries may interact with tannins in black tea. Tannins inhibit iron absorption, which is particularly unfavorable for patients with iron-deficiency anemia.
3. Oxalic Acid Reaction with Vitamin C: Black tea contains a certain amount of oxalic acid, while goji berries are rich in vitamin C. When oxalic acid reacts with vitamin C, it may form oxalates, reducing the activity of vitamin C and thereby decreasing its absorption and utilization from goji berries.
4. Reduced Medicinal Efficacy: Goji berries have certain medicinal properties, but some components in black tea may interact with those in goji berries, diminishing their therapeutic effects. If a person is taking medications, such interactions might affect drug efficacy. Therefore, simultaneous consumption is best avoided.
5. Gastric Ulcers: Certain components in goji berries may stimulate gastric acid secretion, while the tannins in black tea may irritate the gastric mucosa, leading to gastrointestinal discomfort. For patients with gastric ulcers, consuming both may exacerbate gastric inflammation, causing symptoms such as upper abdominal pain and nausea. Medications such as hydrotalcite chewable tablets, omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, or rabeprazole sodium enteric-coated tablets may be used under medical guidance to relieve discomfort.
Therefore, it is not recommended to consume goji berries and black tea simultaneously, to avoid adverse effects on health.
