Black Tea and milk can indeed be enjoyed together—think of the classic combination in milk tea. Some people say that milk should not be consumed with tea, as the Calcium in milk can bind with oxalic acid in the tea, making it unabsorbable. This theory doesn't hold up. Compared to vegetables, tea is not a major source of oxalic acid. A teabag contains 4-6 mg of oxalic acid per gram, and each molecule of oxalic acid can bind with two calcium ions. The molecular weight of oxalic acid and the atomic weight of two calcium ions are roughly in a 1:1 ratio. Brewing a cup of tea typically requires 1-2 grams of tea (for most people), which would contain no more than 12 mg of oxalic acid, resulting in a loss of only 12 mg of calcium. However, half a cup of milk (100 grams) contains 100-120 mg of calcium, so even if 12 mg were lost, it would only be one-tenth of the total, not something to worry about, and certainly not leading to osteoporosis.
Can I Add Milk Directly to Black Tea?
Milk can be added directly to black tea. Milk is rich in protein, calcium, and other nutrients, while black tea, as one of the key ingredients in milk tea, has a sweet taste and unique floral and fruity aromas. Therefore, you can add milk directly to black tea or first Brew the black tea, strain out the leaves, pour the tea into a cup, then add heated milk, stir well, and drink once it reaches a comfortable temperature.
Combining milk with black tea not only enhances the aroma and smoothness of the beverage but also warms the stomach and intestines, strengthens the spleen, helps prevent osteoporosis, and cares for the digestive system.
In countries like the UK and the US, it's common to add milk and sugar to black tea, and the biggest advantage of adding milk to black tea is the smoother texture. The silky mouthfeel and the taste of milk tea make it easier to enjoy both in terms of flavor and taste.
Additionally, adding milk to black tea is beneficial for health, as it can bind with oxalic acid in the body and aid in excretion, thus having detoxifying and beautifying effects.
Black tea is rich in vitamins, polyphenols, amino acids, and other substances. It can assist in blood sugar regulation. As a warm beverage, it is particularly suitable for Winter consumption. Drinking hot black tea not only nourishes the stomach but also strengthens heart function.
Milk is a “calcium reservoir,” containing abundant minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, and molybdenum. There is also a special form of calcium and phosphorus in milk that significantly improves calcium absorption. The main benefit of milk tea lies in strengthening physical constitution and blood vessel integrity. It enhances resistance to Cold, thereby alleviating cold hands and feet.