How They Interact
Polyphenols (tannins, chlorogenic acid) chelate iron in gut → prevent absorption. Coffee reduces iron absorption 60-90% when consumed with meal. Tea: 70-90%.
Practical Recommendation
Drink coffee/tea between meals (1-2h before or after). If iron-deficient, limit to 1 cup/day and never with iron-rich meals. Take iron supplement with vitamin C juice (not coffee).