Is bubble tea a hidden gut health trap? Experts explain

Veni E N

Mar 17, 2026

Health

Health

Bubble tea, often called boba tea, has become a rapid sensation among urban youth, largely because of global café culture and Asian pop trends.

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But these aesthetic, dessert-like drinks may not be as light or harmless as they appear. In fact, they pack far more calories and carbohydrates than a typical cup of tea.

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“A single serving can reach 300–400 calories, especially when condensed milk or heavy sweeteners are used,” Twincy Ann Sunil, nutritionist and dietitian at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Bengaluru, told South First.

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For people with pre-diabetes or diabetes, the drink can be particularly problematic. Sunil said she increasingly sees younger patients develop blood sugar issues.

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Bubble tea can also lead to digestive issues if consumed frequently, according to Dr Arul Prakash, Clinical Lead and Senior Consultant in Medical Gastroenterology and Hepatology at SRM Prime Hospital, Chennai.