Why shouldn't you eat tea eggs in the morning?
Nov 11, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
There is generally no rule against eating tea eggs in the morning. The concern usually stems from claims that they may impair protein absorption, irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa, increase kidney burden, contain possible nitrites, and easily lead to nutritional imbalance. Tea contains tannic acid, which during the cooking process binds with the protein in eggs to form a precipitate that is difficult to digest. In the morning, the body's digestive function has not yet become fully active.
There is generally no truth to the claim that tea eggs should not be eaten in the morning. This belief usually stems from concerns about impaired protein absorption, irritation of the gastrointestinal mucosa, increased kidney burden, potential nitrite content, and possible nutritional imbalance. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Impaired protein absorption: Tea contains tannins, which can bind with the proteins in eggs during the cooking process, forming indigestible precipitates. In the morning, when digestive function has not yet fully activated, these precipitates may hinder protein breakdown and absorption, reducing the nutritional value of the egg.
2. Irritation of gastrointestinal mucosa: Caffeine and tannins in tea have certain irritating effects on the gastrointestinal tract. Consuming tea eggs on an empty stomach or when gastrointestinal function is weak in the morning may lead to irritation of the gastric mucosa, potentially causing discomfort such as bloating or acid reflux.
3. Increased kidney burden: Making tea eggs typically involves adding a significant amount of salt for flavor enhancement and longer shelf life. Excessive salt intake in the morning raises sodium levels in the body, increasing the metabolic burden on the kidneys. Long-term consumption may impair normal kidney function and negatively affect blood pressure control.
4. Potential nitrite content: If ingredients are not fresh, cooking time is too long, or tea eggs are repeatedly reheated, reactions among tea components, proteins, and salt may produce small amounts of nitrites. Although properly prepared tea eggs usually meet safety standards, regularly consuming them in the morning still poses potential health risks.
5. Risk of nutritional imbalance: Tea eggs offer relatively limited nutrition, primarily providing protein and fat while lacking essential nutrients like vitamins and dietary fiber. Relying solely on tea eggs for breakfast may result in unbalanced nutrient intake, failing to provide comprehensive energy support and possibly affecting energy levels during the morning hours.
For daily breakfasts, it's recommended to choose milder preparations such as boiled eggs or steamed eggs, along with vegetables and whole grains to ensure balanced nutrition. Individuals with weak gastrointestinal function or chronic medical conditions should minimize their consumption of tea eggs.
