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| - Last Updated on August 21, 2024 by Nivedita
Quick Take
An article claims that a tea coffee mix drink can lower cholesterol levels. We did the fact check and found out it is false.
The Claim
As per an article on a website called Herzindagi, a tea coffee mix drink is good for health. And, it can bring down bad cholesterol levels.
Fact Check
What is dirty chai?
Dirty Chai is a popular beverage that combines the flavours and ingredients of traditional masala chai and espresso. It is made with masala black tea, steamed milk, and a shot of espresso, creating a unique blend of tea and coffee. This tea coffee mix drink is known by various names, including Espresso Chai, Red Eye Chai, and Chai Charger. It is consumed hot throughout the day and can also be enjoyed cold. Many people appreciate dirty chai for its refreshing taste and the energising kick from the espresso.
Are there health benefits of dirty chai?
Dirty chai, or the tea coffee mix drink, like many beverages, may have certain health benefits due to its ingredients. Masala chai contains black tea, which is rich in antioxidants called polyphenols that can support heart health and may reduce inflammation. The spices in masala chai, such as ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, have various health-promoting properties, including anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. The addition of espresso provides caffeine, which can improve alertness and cognitive function.
However, it’s essential to note that the health benefits depend on the quantity and quality of the ingredients used, as well as how the drink is prepared. The addition of sweeteners and high-fat dairy can reduce the potential health benefits of dirty chai.
Can dirty chai really bring down bad cholesterol levels?
No, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that dirty chai can lower bad cholesterol levels. While some components of the tea coffee mix drink, such as black tea and certain spices, are associated with heart health, including potential cholesterol-lowering effects. These benefits are usually modest and part of a broader, balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
Another false social media post claims that drinking chai with turmeric can be poisonous and even deadly.
What does an expert say?
We reached out to Dr Ubaid ur Rahman, General Physician at Holy Mission Clinic, New Delhi, for his insights on Dirty chai. He says, “I can tell you that consuming coffee or tea can significantly enhance your alertness and energy levels for several hours. The caffeine in these drinks stimulates the central nervous system, which can improve focus, reduce fatigue temporarily, and provide a temporary boost in mental and physical performance. Dirty chai, which combines the benefits of both tea and espresso, can offer a strong caffeine boost that may enhance these effects.”
Dr Rahman further informs, “But, it’s important to be mindful of the potential negative effects too. Excessive consumption of caffeine can lead to jitteriness, increased heart rate, anxiety, digestive issues, and sleep disturbances. Additionally, the sugar and high-fat content in some dirty chai preparations can contribute to weight gain, raised cholesterol levels and other health issues if consumed regularly. It’s best to enjoy these drinks in moderation and be aware of your body’s response to caffeine and other ingredients. Also, one must avoid having tea or coffee after meals or with meals.”
What are the side effects of drinking dirty chai?
Dirty chai can be a delightful drink for many, but mixing tea and coffee can have side effects. There are potential risks with its consumption, especially if consumed in large quantities or by individuals with certain health conditions. Following are some risks to be aware of:
Caffeine Content
Dirty chai contains both black tea and espresso, making it relatively high in caffeine. Possible risks associated with high caffeine intake include:
- Insomnia and Sleep Disruption: Consuming high amounts of caffeine, especially later in the day, can interfere with sleep patterns.
- Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure: For individuals sensitive to caffeine, it can cause a temporary spike in heart rate and blood pressure.
- Anxiety and Jitters: High caffeine consumption can exacerbate anxiety symptoms and cause jitteriness or nervousness.
- Digestive Issues: Excessive caffeine can lead to digestive discomfort, including acid reflux or stomach upset.
- Addiction: Not being able to have caffeine for a long duration can also lead to withdrawal symptoms among regular drinkers.
- Muscle Breakdown: Large amounts of caffeine may also result in breakdown of muscle fibres.
- Frequent Urination: Excess caffeine may require you to pee more.
- Tiredness: Coffee or tea generally boost alertness and energy levels for a few hours. But, then it leads to people feeling fatigued, also called ‘Rebound fatigue’.
Sugar Content
Many dirty chai recipes include added sweeteners, which can pose health risks if consumed in excess:
- Weight Gain: High sugar intake can contribute to weight gain and obesity.
- Increased Risk of Diabetes: Excessive sugar consumption is linked to a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
- Dental Problems: High sugar intake can increase the risk of tooth decay and cavities.
Dairy Content
For those who use regular dairy milk, there are additional considerations:
- Lactose Intolerance: Individuals who are lactose intolerant may experience digestive discomfort, such as bloating, gas, and diarrhoea, when consuming dairy milk.
- High Saturated Fat: Whole milk and certain dairy products are high in saturated fat. This can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels and heart disease if consumed in large amounts.
Allergies and Sensitivities
Dirty chai contains various spices that might cause allergic reactions or sensitivities in some individuals. Spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom can cause allergies which can lead to symptoms like skin rashes, itching, or respiratory issues.
Interactions with Medications
Certain ingredients in dirty chai can interact with medications:
- Caffeine: Can interfere with the effectiveness of certain medications or exacerbate side effects. For example, caffeine can affect heart medications, antidepressants, and some antibiotics.
- Spices: Some spices might interact with medications, such as blood thinners, by enhancing their effects and increasing the risk of bleeding.
Therefore, mixing tea and coffee can multiply the side effects. If you like dirty chai, it can be part of a healthy diet, but it is important to consume it in moderation. Also, be mindful of its ingredients.
To minimise risks:
- Limit Caffeine Intake: Balance dirty chai consumption with other caffeine sources to stay within recommended limits (up to 300 mg per day for most Indian adults).
- Manage Sugar Intake: Opt for less or no added sugar, or use natural sweeteners in moderation.
- Consider Dairy Alternatives: Use plant-based milk alternatives if lactose intolerant or concerned about saturated fat intake.
- Monitor for Allergic Reactions: Be aware of any adverse reactions to spices and adjust ingredients accordingly.
What is bad cholesterol and why is it called so?
Bad cholesterol refers to low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is considered “bad” because high levels can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Plaque is a fatty substance that can narrow or block arteries, leading to cardiovascular problems.
What are actual recommendations for bringing down bad cholesterol?
Dirty chai or the tea coffee mix drink may not lower your bad cholesterol levels. But, there are several proven ways to manage your cholesterol and enhance your overall health. To effectively lower bad cholesterol levels, health experts recommend lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medications. Some of the recommendations are:
- Dietary Changes: Adopt a diet low in saturated and trans fats. Increase intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats such as those found in nuts and olive oil. Foods high in soluble fibre, like oats and legumes, can help reduce LDL cholesterol.
- Regular Exercise: Engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week can help raise good cholesterol (HDL) and lower bad cholesterol (LDL).
- Weight Management: Losing excess weight can help lower LDL cholesterol levels.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking cessation improves HDL cholesterol levels and benefits overall heart health.
- Medications: For some individuals, lifestyle changes alone may not be sufficient. Doctors may prescribe statins or other cholesterol-lowering medications.
The role of a balanced diet in managing cholesterol
A balanced diet plays a pivotal role in managing cholesterol levels. Including a variety of nutrient-rich foods and reducing the intake of unhealthy fats (trans fats and saturated fats) is effective. To add more, choosing heart-healthy options like physical activity and proper sleep can collectively contribute to better cholesterol management. So, choosing black tea or herbal tea without the milk and sugar is a much better option. But, do not go overboard.
THIP Media Take
Dirty chai or the tea coffee mix drink, may offer some general health benefits due to its ingredients. But, there is no direct evidence to suggest that it can significantly lower bad cholesterol levels. Maintaining heart health and managing cholesterol require an all-inclusive approach that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and, when necessary, medical intervention.
We have done several fact checks like: Does alcohol have any health benefits? Can a slimming tea help you lose weight? Can green tea prevent depression? Does drinking refrigerated water harm your body? Also read: Can Green Tea Benefit My Health?
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