Green Tea Side Effects, Health Benefits and Dangers

What Is Green Tea?

Green tea, derived from the tea plant Camellia sinensis, is classified as one of the true teas, along with black tea, white tea, and oolong teas.

Compared to its counterparts, green tea undergoes minimal processing. Like all true teas, it contains caffeine, contributing to its stimulating effects.

Its rich history spans centuries, people use it in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine to address various ailments, ranging from fevers to heart conditions.

Health Benefits of Green Tea

The remarkable health benefits attributed to green tea encompass a range of advantages, including expedited weight loss, cancer prevention, and improved blood pressure.

Furthermore, research suggests that green tea possesses neuroprotective properties, offering potential defense against conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s.

A notable aspect of green tea is its viability as a caffeine-reducing substitute for coffee enthusiasts. This is due to the presence of L-theanine, an amino acid known to regulate blood sugar levels and moderate caffeine absorption.

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Consequently, the consumption of green tea provides a more balanced energy boost, avoiding the unwanted jittery sensations associated with excessive caffeine intake.

Green Tea Side Effects

When it comes to consuming tea, particularly green tea, it is crucial to be aware of potential side effects. While generally safe for adults, practicing moderation is key to avoid adverse reactions.

Arewa House delves into the various side effects associated with green tea consumption, emphasizing the importance of responsible intake.

Stomach Problems

One potential side effect of green tea consumption is stomach irritation. This may occur when the tea is brewed too strongly or consumed on an empty stomach.

The tannins present in green tea can elevate stomach acid levels, leading to digestive issues such as constipation, acid reflux, and nausea.

Headaches

Problems Sleeping

Green tea contains caffeine, a compound known to disrupt sleep. Although the caffeine content in green tea is relatively low, it can still affect individuals sensitive to caffeine.

Additionally, the presence of l-theanine, which promotes calmness but also increases alertness and focus, can potentially interfere with sleep for some individuals.

While l-theanine has shown potential benefits for sleep, studies have primarily focused on individuals with disorders such as ADHD and schizophrenia.

Moreover, the caffeine in green tea, particularly in matcha green tea, may overshadow the potential sleep-inducing effects of l-theanine.

While most individuals can benefit from consuming a cup of green tea before bed, individuals with caffeine sensitivity should ensure consumption no later than 5 hours before bedtime.

Anemia and Iron Deficiency

Studies have highlighted cases where excessive green tea consumption led to anemia in individuals. To mitigate this effect, adding lemon to green tea can promote iron absorption due to the presence of vitamin C.

Vomiting

Excessive consumption of green tea can result in nausea and vomiting due to the presence of tannins. These compounds can bind with proteins in the intestines, potentially leading to feelings of queasiness and constipation.

Seasoned tea drinkers should limit their daily green tea intake to no more than 4 cups. Beginners should start with 1 or 2 cups per day and observe their body’s response before increasing consumption.

Dizziness and Convulsions

Consuming large amounts of green tea, primarily due to its caffeine content, can induce dizziness or lightheadedness.

Caffeine restricts blood flow to the brain and central nervous system, potentially triggering motion sickness. In rare cases, excessive green tea consumption may even lead to convulsions or confusion.

Individuals with tinnitus should avoid green tea as it can exacerbate the condition. Moderate consumption of green tea is recommended, particularly for those sensitive to caffeine.

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More Green Tea Side Effects

Research suggests that the maximum tolerable dose in humans is equivalent to 24 cups of green tea. However, it’s important to note that these side effects are rare and typically occur only with excessive consumption.

Bleeding Disorders

In rare cases, green tea can trigger bleeding disorders. Compounds in green tea decrease levels of fibrinogen, a protein that helps clot blood.

Green tea also prevents the oxidation of fatty acids, which can lead to thinner blood consistency. Individuals with blood clotting disorders should avoid drinking green tea.

Liver Disease

Green tea supplements and high consumption of green tea can lead to liver damage and disease. This is believed to be due to the accumulation of caffeine, which can stress the liver.

To avoid this side effect, it is recommended to consume no more than 4 to 5 cups of green tea per day.

Irregular Heartbeat and Blood Pressure

While drinking tea has been associated with lower blood pressure, some studies show that green tea may still affect blood pressure in certain individuals.

One study found that green tea raised blood pressure due to the presence of caffeine. Another study suggested that green tea may interfere with certain blood pressure medications.

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If you have heart disease, it is advisable to seek medical advice from your healthcare professional before consuming green tea.

Bone Health

Excessive consumption of green tea increases the risk of bone diseases, such as osteoporosis, in sensitive individuals.

Compounds in green tea inhibit the absorption of calcium, resulting in a deterioration of bone health.

Limiting green tea intake to 2 to 3 cups per day is recommended for individuals predisposed to bone disease. If consuming more than that, it is important to take a calcium supplement to support bone health.

Risks for Pregnancy and Child Use

Tannins, caffeine, and tea catechins have all been linked to increased risks during pregnancy. Experts suggest that consuming small amounts of green tea, no more than 2 cups per day, is safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Caffeine can pass through breast milk to infants, so monitoring intake in coordination with a physician is important.

Drinking more than 2 cups per day can lead to miscarriage and birth defects in children. It is crucial to keep caffeine intake below 200 milligrams per day.

Is 21st Century Green Tea Safe?

While green tea is generally recognized as safe by the FDA when consumed in moderation, it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects associated with this popular beverage.

Most of these side effects stem from the caffeine content in green tea, particularly when consumed excessively.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience with green tea, it is crucial to follow recommended guidelines and take necessary precautions.

One notable concern when it comes to green tea is its caffeine content. While green tea generally contains less caffeine than coffee, excessive consumption can still lead to side effects. Such as headaches, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping.

If you are sensitive to caffeine or have any preexisting conditions that may be aggravated by its effects, it is advisable to limit your green tea intake or avoid it altogether.

Consulting with your physician can provide valuable insights and guidance based on your specific health circumstances.

Whether you prefer loose leaf tea or the convenience of tea bags. Green tea can be a delightful addition to your daily routine.

Remember to listen to your body and make informed choices based on your individual needs and health considerations.

By practicing moderation and seeking professional advice when necessary. You can safely incorporate green tea into a balanced and healthy lifestyle.