Hidden Health Risks of Tea: Tea is a widely loved beverage. For many, the day begins with a sip of tea, and a craving for it strikes again as evening approaches. Some people consume tea in the morning, afternoon, and evening, and even have a cup before going to bed at night. Many individuals drink four to six cups—or even more—daily. Have you ever wondered if excessive tea consumption could affect your kidneys? Let’s find out what the experts have to say about this.

Dr. Amarendra Pathak, Vice Chairman of the Department of Urology at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi, explains that tea is a diuretic beverage. This means it increases urine output. Consuming large amounts of tea raises the risk of dehydration. The impact on the kidneys is particularly noticeable when a person drinks a lot of tea but consumes insufficient water. The kidneys are responsible for flushing waste products out of the body, a process that requires adequate hydration. Dehydration can adversely affect kidney function.

The urologist noted that it would be incorrect to claim that drinking tea alone causes kidney failure. However, black tea contains a substance called oxalate. Excessive accumulation of oxalate in the body can increase the risk of kidney stone formation in some individuals. Those with a history of kidney stones are advised to be particularly cautious about their tea intake. Drinking enough water and maintaining a balanced diet can significantly reduce this risk.

According to the expert, excessive tea consumption can affect other parts of the body besides the kidneys. High caffeine intake can lead to sleep disturbances, restlessness, anxiety, rapid heartbeat, and digestive issues. Additionally, consuming large amounts of tea with milk and sugar can contribute to weight gain and affect blood sugar control. Health experts generally consider consuming two to three cups of tea a day to be safe. One should avoid consuming more than this amount of tea.

Doctors clearly advise that individuals with pre-existing conditions—such as kidney disease, high blood pressure, kidney stones, heart disease, or sleep-related issues—should consult a doctor or dietitian regarding their tea consumption. Pregnant women are also advised to keep their caffeine intake in check. Enjoy your tea, but maintain a balance and do not forget to keep your body adequately hydrated. Drinking tea mindfully can help you avoid various health issues.

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