Advisory

Tannins

Tannins are a group of chemical compounds that naturally occur in many plants, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, nuts, and seeds. They are known for their strong antioxidant properties, which can help protect the body from harmful free radicals and support overall health. Tannins can also help improve digestion, support heart and vascular health, and may have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects.

Although tannins have many potential health benefits, they can also cause some adverse effects if consumed in excessive amounts. For example, they may cause stomach issues, such as nausea or vomiting, and can also exacerbate symptoms of stomach ulcers. Some studies also suggest that a high intake of tannins may decrease the absorption of certain nutrients, such as iron. Therefore, it is important to consume tannin-rich foods in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.

Hello,
I wanted to ask about the opinion on the steeping time of tea mentioned earlier in the discussion:
"Generally speaking, the longer the steeping time, the higher the caffeine content in the tea."
I have encountered the opposite opinion regarding black tea (I'm not sure if it applies to green tea as well), which is that the longer it is steeped from 4 to 5 minutes, tannins are released that specifically neutralize the effect of caffeine, and the tea then has calming effects. So how is it, please? If we want to reduce caffeine, should we steep the tea for a short time, or on the contrary, for a longer 4-5 minutes?
Thank you.

The longer you steep the herb, the more substances are released into the liquid; this is a general rule. The fact is that with the duration of steeping tea leaves, not only caffeine is released into the water but also tannins, which do not neutralize the effects of caffeine but complicate its release in the body. This means that the tea will contain a lot of caffeine and tannins, and due to the presence of tannins, caffeine will be absorbed more slowly in the digestive tract, making its effects in the body more gradual and long-lasting (on the order of hours). When preparing tea, it is up to you which method you prefer concerning the goal you aim to achieve by consuming the tea.

Questions answered by

Mgr. Martin Jelinek
Lecturer and author of the educational system

Nutrition educator, lecturer, and author of the educational system and the ZOF learning application.

Mgr. Martin Jelínek has been systematically involved in nutrition education since 1999. He is the founder of ATAC, the educational company behind NutriCourses, and the author of an educational system focused on nutrition, healthy lifestyle, and the practical application of nutrition knowledge.

He graduated from the Faculty of Science at Masaryk University in Brno. Throughout his professional career, he has combined nutrition, education, and the practical application of acquired knowledge. His educational system also includes the ZOF (Zone of Optimal Functioning) learning application, where students turn theory into practical work with meal plans.

In 2007, he launched the first intake of a six-month course focused on the education of nutrition advisors. Over time, this course became the foundation for the further development of the educational system and a range of specialised courses.

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