Tea Tasting Sickness: What It Is and How to Stop It

Ever walked out of a tea tasting feeling queasy, dizzy, or with a sour stomach? You’re not alone. Many tea lovers and professional tasters run into what we call "tea tasting sickness" – a mix of nausea, headaches, and fatigue that shows up after sampling multiple brews.

The cause is simple: your body is getting hit with a lot of caffeine, tannins, and volatile aromas all at once. When you sip five, ten, or even more different teas in a short period, your nervous system can’t keep up. The result? A sudden drop in blood sugar, overstimulated taste buds, and an upset stomach.

Why Your Body Reacts This Way

Caffeine is the obvious trigger. Even low‑caffeine teas add up fast, especially green and white varieties. Add tannins – the compounds that make tea taste astringent – and you have a double whammy that can irritate the lining of your stomach. On top of that, the strong aromas released during a tasting session can overload your olfactory nerves, leading to headaches.

Professional tea tasters know the term “palate fatigue.” After a while, the palate stops distinguishing flavors and just signals the brain that something’s wrong. That’s why many tasters schedule breaks, hydrate, and eat light snacks between samples.

Practical Ways to Keep the Sickness at Bay

1. Hydrate wisely. Sip water or a mild herbal infusion (like chamomile) between each tea. Avoid sugary drinks that can spike blood sugar and then crash.

2. Snack smart. A few crackers, a slice of fruit, or a handful of nuts give your stomach something neutral to work on, reducing acidity.

3. Limit caffeine load. If you plan to taste ten teas, skip the high‑caffeine ones or dilute them with hot water. Save the strongest pours for the end of the session.

4. Take short breaks. Even a two‑minute pause lets your taste buds reset. Walk around, breathe fresh air, or simply rest your mouth.

5. Mind the temperature. Extremely hot brews can irritate your throat, while overly cool ones may dull flavor perception. Aim for a comfortable sipping temperature – around 155‑165°F (68‑74°C).

If you start feeling light‑headed or your stomach hurts, stop the tasting and give yourself a proper break. A glass of water and a breath of fresh air usually do the trick. If symptoms persist for more than an hour, it’s wise to check with a healthcare professional.

Remember, tea tasting is meant to be enjoyable, not a marathon. By pacing yourself, staying hydrated, and feeding your body between sips, you can explore the world of tea without the nasty side effects.

Next time you sit down for a tasting, try these tips and notice the difference. Your palate will thank you, and you’ll walk out feeling refreshed, not sick.