Is there any harmful effects of green tea?

Green tea is one the healthiest powerhouse that swept the world by storm. Today, more and more people are switching over to green tea because of its beneficial benefits to our health. However, there are certain things you should keep in mind when drinking green tea.  Curious to know what are they? Read on to find out.

Like other beverages, green tea does have some harmful side effects. But rest assured! Many of these harmful effects affect those who are susceptible to caffeine or tannins.

Most tea drinkers undergo some, if not none, side effects when sipping green tea. Check out some of the likely problems you may face when consuming green tea.

1. Stomach Complications

Green tea can induce stomach upset when you steeped for too long or drank on an empty stomach as it holds tannins that can enhance the acid levels in your stomach, leading to digestive issues, such as constipation and aversion. To avoid this, do not consume green tea in empty stomach.

When you consume green tea in excess, it can cause diarrhea. Caffeine produces a diuretic impact as it incites the colon muscles to shrink and deliver more often, resulting in an upset stomach. If you often have stomach problems or irritable bowel syndrome, it's better to avoid green tea.

2. Headaches

Green tea can sometimes cause headaches because of its caffeine content. If you often have headaches, avoid sipping green tea regularly.

Also, if you are one of those people with caffeine sensitivity, it's better to circumvent green tea.

3. Decreases Iron Content

The catechins can increase metabolism and support weight loss; but, disproportionate intake of green tea can lead to decreased iron content in your body. The situation can get worse if you have iron deficiency.

 But, don't fret! You can still enjoy a cup of green tea by squeezing lemon juice into it.

4.     Bleeding Disorders

Green tea can rarely lead to bleeding complications. The compounds present in green tea can reduce fibrinogen levels, a protein that aids blood clotting. If you have blood clotting trouble, you should avoid green tea.

5. Liver Disease

Green tea supplements and excessive drinking of green tea can trigger liver degeneration and illness. Experts state that the caffeine accumulation can distress your liver.

To avoid this from happening, do not consume green tea in excess. 

6.     Risks during Pregnancy

Tannins, caffeine, and catechins can increase dangers during pregnancy. Drinking not more than 2 cups a day is harmless during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Keep in mind, consuming over 2 cups in a day can cause miscarriage and birth abnormalities.

Bottom line

Green tea is truly amazing and one of the healthiest beverages, which is safe to consume for most adults; yet, there are a few harmful side effects. Interestingly, most of these effects occur when you drink green tea in excess amount, so the key is to drink it in moderation.  We recommend 3-4 cups to get the optimal benefits of green tea if you don't have any underlying health problems, are not pregnant, or breastfeeding.