Masala Chai: Know its benefits and its side effects

A classic Indian staple, masala chai or ‘chai’ or tea is a heart-warming drink often associated with comfort. Blending the subtle flavors of many natural herbs, masala chai is blended with ingredients like cloves, black pepper, ginger and cardamom. A sip of this delicious decoction will instantly banish all-day fatigue. And there’s good news for all tea lovers – masala chai has been ranked the second-best non-alcoholic beverage in 2023, according to online food guide TasteAtlas.

Is it healthy to drink masala chai?

Yes, masala chai is delicious and it’s healthy too! Masala chai is a rich source of nutrients such as antioxidants such as catechins and theoflavins. These antioxidants can fight oxidative stress, prevent cancer and improve many conditions, said Surabhi Sharma, head of the Department of Dietetics and Nutrition at Max Hospital.

Masala chai also contains calcium, magnesium, potassium and vitamin K. It helps boost our immunity The spices in masala chai, including ginger, cardamom and cloves, have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help fight infections. and viruses.

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What are the health benefits of masala chai?

Masala chai or tea is a rich source of nutrients that help protect your body and organs from many health problems. Health Benefits of Masala Chai You Must Know:

1. Provides energy

Masala tea leaves contain caffeine, which helps you wake up, energize, cleanse, and relax. It also improves brain and heart health by providing energy, says the expert.

2. Protects cells

Black tea combined with cardamom is a powerful duo and helps protect cells in your body. It contains antioxidants that help you do this.

3. Reduces pain

Cloves contain eugenol, a natural anesthetic that helps reduce pain. A study published in Phytotherapy Research found that ginger in tea also has pain-relieving properties. Cloves and ginger have antioxidant properties that help relieve pain, experts say.

4. Improves digestion

Ginger used in masala chai aids digestion by improving oxygenation and circulation, which helps organs function optimally. Chai aids digestion, lowers sugar levels and promotes cardiovascular health.

5. Boosts immunity

Masala tea contains ingredients such as cinnamon, ginger, cardamom and more, which have properties like vitamin C that boosts immune health and protects you from diseases.

6. Fights bacteria

The spices used to make masala tea have antibacterial properties that help fight pathogens and reduce the chances of developing any bacterial infections.

7. Helps in weight loss

Chai tea also boosts your metabolism and helps your body burn fat. Black tea mixed with cinnamon helps lower cholesterol and helps your body convert calories into energy faster, says an expert.

How to make masala tea?

Making masala chai is very easy. Add an inch of cinnamon, 2-3 cardamoms, 2 cloves and 1 inch of peeled ginger to two cups of boiled water. Now add some tea powder in the mix and cook well. Let the water boil for 2-3 minutes and add some sugar to the mixture (optional). Strain and enjoy the masala tea.

Are there any side effects of consuming masala chai?

There are many health benefits of drinking masala chai, but there are also some side effects. “Caffeine can cause a variety of problems, including insomnia, anxiety and restlessness,” says Sharma.

Everything in moderation provides health benefits, but anything in excess can lead to problems. This hot drink contains caffeine and people who are sensitive to it should avoid drinking too much. “Tea also contains tannins, which can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and hormonal imbalance,” adds the expert.

Who Should Avoid Drinking Masala Chai?

Consuming too much masala chai can cause problems due to high caffeine intake. People suffering from anxiety or stress should avoid this tea. Women with hormonal imbalances and pregnant women should also limit their intake. People with poor intestinal health should also avoid it because it can trigger problems like vomiting and diarrhea.