Is Drinking Hot Citrus Tea Before Bed a Bad Idea?

About Drinking Tea

Hello Doctor: Since I work the late shift, I am very tired when I get off work at eleven o'clock at night and need to go home to rest.
However, I felt bad declining my colleagues' invitation, so I went with them to have tea.
Everyone ordered hot fresh orange tea, and I finished a large cup of 500cc.
When I got home and went to bed around midnight, my stomach felt a bit strange.
Could you please advise me if drinking hot orange tea before bed is inappropriate? Does hot orange tea really help the throat? Since it is acidic, and when it goes into the stomach where the gastric juices are also acidic, could the combination of acidity be causing my discomfort? Thank you for your response.
Thank you!

Xiao Zhenzhen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/01/10

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear Xiao Zhen Zhen,
1.
Based on your described symptoms, it appears that your stomach is not in good condition, making you prone to acid reflux and stomach pain.
It is advisable not to drink too much water before bedtime, as it increases the burden on your stomach.

2.
Hot orange tea is acidic; the combination of orange and tea can stimulate the stomach to secrete more acid.
The additional acidity can lead to discomfort.
Drinking a large cup (500cc) of hot orange tea may cause your stomach to produce more gastric acid, leading to food reflux that irritates your throat, resulting in discomfort in both your stomach and throat.

3.
It is recommended to switch to a small cup of milk before bedtime and to avoid tea, coffee, and acidic foods like lemons.
Try to maintain a calm and relaxed state of mind, and consider Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for diagnosis through pulse examination, which can provide insights into your condition and constitution, allowing for the most appropriate prescription to regulate your gastric lining.

Wishing you well,
Assistant Professor Lin Qingzhong, Director of the Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fengyuan Hospital

Reply Date: 2008/01/10

More Info

Drinking hot citrus tea before bed can indeed have implications for your health, particularly if you have a sensitive stomach or are prone to acid reflux. Let's break down the concerns and effects of consuming hot citrus tea, especially in the context of your experience.

Firstly, citrus fruits, such as oranges, are naturally acidic. When you consume hot citrus tea, the acidity can stimulate your stomach to produce more gastric acid. This is particularly relevant if you drink a large quantity, like the 500cc you mentioned. The increased acidity can lead to discomfort, especially if you lie down soon after drinking. This is because lying down can exacerbate acid reflux, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, which can cause a burning sensation or discomfort in the throat and chest.

In your case, drinking hot citrus tea right before bed may not be the best choice, especially if you are already experiencing discomfort. The combination of the tea's acidity and the natural acidity of your stomach contents can indeed lead to a situation where "acid meets acid," potentially causing irritation and discomfort. If you have a history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or similar conditions, it's advisable to avoid acidic beverages before bedtime.

Moreover, consuming large amounts of any liquid right before bed can increase the likelihood of nocturnal awakenings due to the need to urinate. This can disrupt your sleep cycle, making it harder for you to feel rested the next day, especially after working a night shift.

As for the benefits of hot citrus tea for the throat, while it can provide temporary relief due to its warmth and hydration, the acidity may counteract these benefits if you are prone to throat irritation. Warm liquids can soothe the throat, but if they are acidic, they might not be suitable for everyone, particularly if you have existing throat discomfort or sensitivity.

In summary, while hot citrus tea can have some benefits, it may not be the best choice before bed, especially in large quantities. If you find that it consistently causes discomfort, consider alternatives such as herbal teas that are caffeine-free and less acidic, like chamomile or peppermint tea. These options can provide warmth and hydration without the potential for increased acidity.

If you continue to experience discomfort after consuming hot citrus tea or if you have concerns about your digestive health, it may be wise to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current symptoms. Additionally, if you are looking for ways to improve your sleep quality, consider establishing a calming bedtime routine that avoids stimulating or irritating foods and beverages.

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