Tea And Coffee And Nutrition by Jane Thurnell-Read

Tea and coffee are stimulants, and many of the problems of taking stimulants are well known. One of the least publicised problems with tea and coffee drinking is the effect that these have on mineral absorption.

Drinking tea and coffee interferes with the body's ability to absorb a whole range of minerals.

Calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, manganese, selenium, chromium and iodine are just some of the minerals that are effected.

These are all minerals that are vital to health, and studies show that many people have marginal intake of some of these, such as iron and zinc.So, if you're concerned about your mineral levels, cut back on tea and coffee, or at least drink it away from meals. And remember, if you're taking supplements containing minerals, don't wash them down with a cup of tea or coffee!

Have a look at this article for the effect of alcohol on nutrients.