What are the side effects of drinking milk tea?

What are the side effects of milk tea?

Milk tea is tea plus milk, so its downsides come from the tea (caffeine), the milk (lactose) and what is added (sugar, syrups, creamer). Plain, lightly sweetened milk tea is a modest drink; large sweet cafe versions are a different story.

Caffeine

Black tea contains caffeine, though amounts vary by tea, leaf quantity and steeping time, so check the label or ask the shop. The FDA says up to 400 milligrams of caffeine a day is not generally associated with negative effects for most healthy adults. Too much caffeine can cause a faster heart rate, jitters, anxiety, trouble sleeping, upset stomach and headache. Remember that caffeine from tea adds to coffee, cola and energy drinks. The FDA advises pregnant or breastfeeding people to ask their health care provider whether to limit it.

Lactose

The NIDDK says lactose intolerance can cause bloating, belly pain, gas, diarrhea and nausea after milk products. Most people with it can tolerate some lactose, and a dash of milk in tea may be fine. Lactose-free or plant milks are options.

Added sugar

Sweet milk tea, condensed milk and bubble tea with syrups or tapioca pearls can carry a lot of sugar and calories. Amounts vary widely by shop and recipe, so ask for less sweet or check the label.

What about the myths?

Searchers often ask about disadvantages of tea with milk. I found no official health body saying that adding milk makes tea harmful for healthy people, so treat sweeping claims with caution.

Simple ways to enjoy it with fewer downsides

• Choose a smaller size and less sweetener.
• Have it earlier in the day if caffeine affects your sleep.
• Use lactose-free milk if dairy bothers you.
• Brew it yourself to control sugar.

General information only; speak to a doctor about persistent symptoms.