Reader Mail: My family loves drinking tea, and green tea is our absolute favorite. We brew a huge pitcher of green tea every single day, and everyone drinks over a dozen cups a day. The other day, someone mentioned that there are certain taboos to drinking green tea, and it’s not good for people who shouldn’t have it. We’re a bit worried—what are the taboos of drinking green tea?
Chang Hsing Tea: Hi Kevin. Any beverage in excess is not good, and green tea is no exception. While drinking green tea has many health benefits, it can have negative effects for specific individuals or when consumed in excessive amounts. Here are the taboos of drinking green tea:
Green Tea Taboo 1: Insomnia
Although green tea contains relatively less caffeine, it is still present. Drinking it in small amounts can help boost alertness, but drinking it in large quantities can easily cause agitation, insomnia, and other issues. If you have trouble falling asleep after drinking tea, it’s best to cut back. Those suffering from insomnia should avoid green tea entirely.
Green Tea Taboo 2: Anemia
Catechins easily bind with iron, which has a negative impact on the human body’s iron absorption. For people with symptoms of anemia, it’s best to avoid drinking green tea due to its catechin content. In addition, vegetarians are also prone to iron deficiency, so they should consume it in moderation.
Green Tea Taboo 3: Malnutrition
Drinking green tea can aid in weight loss, but for those who are already underweight, malnourished, or suffering from protein deficiency, the weight-loss effect of green tea becomes a major drawback. If you have these issues, drinking green tea is a major taboo!
▲ Although delicious, there are still some taboos when drinking green tea.
Green Tea Taboo 4: Drinking on an Empty Stomach & Low Blood Sugar
Drinking tea on an empty stomach tends to lower blood sugar and insulin levels, and drinking green tea on top of that will lower them even further. This easily causes stomach upset, palpitations, dizziness, nausea, and other issues, so it should be avoided as much as possible.
Green Tea Taboo 5: Pregnant Women and Children
Drinking too much tea can lead to poor protein absorption and also affects iron absorption. Pregnant women and children require plenty of protein and iron, so it’s best for them to reduce their green tea intake.