Love Your 7 AM Tea? Know how this habit may be messing with key hormones

That comforting 7 AM cup of chai might not be as harmless as it seems. Experts say your early-morning tea ritual could be disrupting key hormones without you even realising it. Here’s why the timing of your chai matters more than you think.

New Delhi: For many Indians, the day doesn’t truly begin until that first steaming cup of chai hits the lips. It’s a ritual comforting, aromatic, and energising. But health experts now warn that sipping tea immediately after waking up might be doing more harm than good, especially to your hormones and digestive system.

The Morning Chai Myth

Most people drink tea as soon as they wake up, thinking it helps shake off grogginess. However, your body functions differently first thing in the morning.

When you wake up, cortisol often called the “stress hormone” naturally spikes to help you feel alert. Adding caffeine from tea to this hormonal surge can create an imbalance, causing cortisol levels to remain elevated for longer periods.

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Over time, this may interfere with your body’s natural energy rhythm and contribute to increased anxiety, fatigue, and even sleep disturbances later in the day.

How Early Tea Affects Hormones

Caffeine, the key stimulant in tea, can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones like cortisol, insulin, and melatonin. When consumed on an empty stomach, it triggers acid production and spikes stress hormones unnecessarily. This sudden hormonal activity may lead to digestive issues, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating.

Women, in particular, may notice irregularities in menstrual cycles or worsened PMS symptoms if cortisol and insulin remain chronically imbalanced. Experts recommend allowing your body at least 45-60 minutes after waking before consuming caffeine to let your hormonal system stabilise.

Impact on Gut Health

Drinking chai the moment you wake up especially without any food can also affect gut health. Tea contains tannins, which increase stomach acidity and can irritate the gut lining. This often results in bloating, nausea, or heartburn. Additionally, milk and sugar, common in Indian tea, can worsen these symptoms by slowing digestion and spiking insulin levels.

Instead, having a glass of warm water or herbal tea without caffeine can help hydrate and prepare your digestive system for breakfast.

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Better Alternatives for a Healthier Start

If you can’t imagine starting your day without chai, the key is timing. Try having your tea after breakfast rather than before it. Pair it with something light like fruits or nuts to prevent acidity and reduce hormonal stress.

You can also switch to caffeine-free options such as tulsi tea, lemon water, or herbal infusions in the early morning. These help detoxify your system and regulate energy without overwhelming your hormones.

The Bottom Line

Your morning chai may be comforting, but it’s best enjoyed after your body has naturally awakened. Waiting just an hour before your first cup could make a world of difference helping your hormones, gut, and energy levels stay in sync all day long.