Fitness icon and supermodel Milind Soman has long been celebrated for his disciplined lifestyle and incredible physique. In a resurfaced interview from the talk show Ek Din Ek Jeevan, Soman candidly admitted that he has never habituated himself to drinking tea or coffee. This revelation has ignited discussions about the necessity of caffeine in our daily lives and whether abstaining from these popular beverages contributes to better health.

The Expert Perspective

To understand the implications of such a habit, we spoke with Dt. Amreen Sheikh, Chief Dietitian at KIMS Hospitals, Thane. According to Sheikh, avoiding tea and coffee is not inherently healthier, nor is consuming them inherently harmful. "Tea and coffee can be part of a healthy lifestyle when consumed in moderation," she asserts. Both beverages are rich in antioxidants and have been linked to improved alertness, concentration, and a reduced risk of certain chronic diseases. However, the devil lies in the details—specifically, what is added to the brew. Excessive sugar, creamers, or consuming multiple cups throughout the day can easily outweigh the potential benefits.

The Downsides of Caffeine and Healthy Alternatives

While moderate intake is generally safe, Dt. Sheikh warns that for some individuals, regular consumption can lead to adverse effects. "Excess caffeine can contribute to sleep disturbances, anxiety, restlessness, acidity, palpitations, or digestive discomfort," she explains. Timing is also crucial; consuming strong coffee late in the day can disrupt sleep quality, which indirectly impacts overall health. Those who, like Soman, choose to skip these drinks are not missing out on essential nutrients, as antioxidants can be readily obtained from fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. For those seeking alternatives, Sheikh recommends herbal infusions, lemon water, coconut water, buttermilk, or simply plain water to stay hydrated without the caffeine crash.