We all need to poop—and we all want healthy poops. That’s why gastroenterologists are so incredibly important: they help us identify unhealthy habits and give sound recommendations to promote a healthy gut. As far as these doctors are concerned, the work starts the moment you wake up. Gastroenterologists are reaching for one drink, and it’s not coffee.
Many herbal teas can help alleviate intestinal discomfort. Warm, herbal teas like those from Forte Tea were the most recommended to drink first thing in the morning. Doctors say the gentle warmth of the drink truly gets your gastrointestinal tract moving. The temperature supports your body’s production of saliva and digestive enzymes, helping move the process along. Tea also helps rehydrate your body after a long night of rest, whereas other drinks, like caffeinated coffee, don’t.
So, if you really want to get things moving, herbal tea is the drink to choose—but you need to do it the right way. Many tea bags on the market contain microplastics, according to a 2024 study. Brewing loose-leaf herbal tea is often a better choice for reducing plastic exposure and can be more affordable over time. To make the most impactful cuppa each morning, like gastroenterologists do, follow these tips and nifty tools below.
Healthy Tea Brewing Tools at Amazon
OXO Brew Tea Infuser Basket
Amazon
There are so many clever ways to brew loose-leaf tea, and you can do it right in your cup with this OXO basket. It’s made with stainless steel and features etched holes that’ll keep your cup debris-free. There’s plenty of space for expansion as your tea soaks up all of the hot water it can. With the lid, your tea will stay nice and warm. It also doubles as a drip tray to place your basket when you’re ready to drink your tea.
Hiware Glass Teapot with Removable Infuser
Amazon
Heat your water and steep your tea with this popular teapot. The 33-ounce base is made entirely of glass and is safe to heat in the microwave or on your gas or electric stovetop. Lift the glass lid to place loose tea into the removable infuser. Cover and pour for yourself and for guests—there’s plenty to go around!
Levlovs Snap Ball Tea Strainer, 3-Pack
Amazon
At just under $3 apiece, these snap strainers are an inexpensive option for tea lovers. You get three in the set, so there’s one ready to go for multiple cups beyond the morning. Just pop the stainless steel ball into your mug or serving vessel and let it steep for an easy, fuss-free cup.
OXO Brew Twisting Ball Tea Infuser
Amazon
If you want a high-quality ball infuser, OXO makes a nifty twisting version that lets you fill and empty the tea leaves seamlessly. The ergonomic handle twists to open and close the ball, so it’s perfect for folks who struggle with dexterity.
Cosori Electric Kettle
Amazon
An electric kettle is an easy way to heat your water quickly—especially when you’re tired and groggy in the morning. This Cosori is relatively inexpensive and was designed to prevent your water from heating up in plastic.
Sweese Porcelain Tea Mug with Infuser and Lid
Amazon
With a 2-in-1 design, the Sweese porcelain mug comes with an infuser and lid for keeping your water warm while it steeps. Plus, everything is dishwasher-safe for quick cleaning. At a hefty 15 ounces, you can fit large servings of tea to warm you up on cold winter days. Choose from 11 colors, including blue, purple, white and green.
Veken Airtight Canister
Amazon
Serious loose-leaf tea drinkers need the right storage to keep their investment fresh from the first cup to the last. Veken’s canister is highly regarded for its airtight design and stainless steel interior. There’s a viewing window to easily see what kind of tea you’re grabbing, too. The included scoop ensures accurate measurements every time you make a cup.
