Why a ‘big pot of tea’ at night is a no-no according to this dietitian

Mary Kalifatidis is a media personality. The 60-year-old shares her day on a plate.

Mary Kalifatidis favours a pot of tea before bed.Credit: Eliza Iredale

10am After waking up to a never-ending stream of builders at 6.30am due to renovations, it’s time for a black coffee. Try to get some rest through the chaos.

12pm This is usually my first meal of the day. I make a green salad with Australian red onion and tuna in oil, with lemon juice and olive oil.

6pm My son and eldest daughter, her partner and baby still live with us and the family is constantly dropping in. I prepare an Aussie smashburger with brown onions done two ways.

9pm In case I haven’t seen enough people in a day, my sisters and Mum then come over for some homemade sweets and a big pot of tea.

Dr Joanna McMillan says

Top marks for … Including oily fish like tuna in your day. Tuna is an important source of omega-3s, which support heart and brain health. Pairing it with leafy greens and olive oil gives your midday meal an anti-inflammatory boost that’s especially valuable in your 60s.

If you keep eating like this you’ll … Stay socially nourished, which is just as important as what’s on the plate. But with no legumes, wholegrains or fruit, you could be missing out on key nutrients such as magnesium, B vitamins and fibre. And that big pot of tea at night might be impacting your sleep quality; switch to a herbal (caffeine-free) tea instead.

Why don’t you try … Adding a nourishing afternoon snack such as Greek yoghurt with fruit and nuts. And if sweets are a nightly ritual, consider making healthier options with oats or nut flours for extra fibre, nutrients and less sugar.

Mary Kalifatidis is the ambassador for Australian Onions.

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