Is there such a thing as green tea side effects? 🤔
In this article, we are going to find out. With so much talk on the health benefits, it’s only fair we talk about the side effects of green tea as well.
We will also show you how to drink green tea without the side effects, which comes down to selecting the right tea and preparing it the right way.
In addition to covering tea you drink, we’ll also take a look at green tea based products, studying everything from green tea extract side effects and green tea fat burner side effects.
Let’s get started! 🎉
Green Tea Side Effects Video
An overview of green tea side effects
Before we talk about green tea side effects, it’s important to keep in mind that different people experience different side effects of green tea. Here are a few factors that influence side effects green tea wise.
Individual Variability
People react differently to substances, and what works well for one person may not be suitable for another.
Factors such as genetics, existing health conditions, and medications can influence how the body responds to the compounds in green tea.
Caffeine Sensitivity
Green tea contains caffeine, albeit in lower amounts than coffee. Individuals sensitive to caffeine may experience adverse effects like jitteriness, increased heart rate, or difficulty sleeping.Recognizing one's caffeine tolerance is essential to enjoy the benefits of green tea without undue discomfort.
If you are sensitive to caffeine and want to avoid these green tea side effects, we recommend you go for a low caffeine tea like genmaicha.
Interaction with Medications
Green tea may interact with certain medications, affecting their absorption or efficacy. For example, green tea can decrease the absorption of statins like lipitor. It may also enhance the effects of blood thinners
If you are on either of these types of medications, it doesn’t hurt to ask your doctor if you are able to drink green tea with them.
Side Effects of Green Tea at Night
So are there side effects of green tea at Night? That would, of course, depend on the amount of caffeine in the tea you are drinking. Let’s break down the side effects of green tea and when you should avoid drinking them.
Side Effects of Green Tea at Night - Low Caffeine
Low caffeine green teas like bancha, kukicha, hojicha and genmaicha can be drunk in the late afternoon or evening. Unless you are very sensitive to caffeine, you shouldn’t experience any side effects of green tea like these.
By the way, if you're looking for the best teas to drink before bed, you may want to read our article 👉 Best loose leaf tea for sleep
Side Effects of Green Tea at Night - High Caffeine
High caffeine green teas like matcha, gyokuro and sencha are best consumed in the morning or early afternoon. If you drink them in the late afternoon or evening, you may have trouble sleeping.
Side Effects of Green Tea on Hair
We don’t tend to think of the side effects of green tea on hair, but they are overwhelmingly positive! The positive side effects of green tea on hair can be broken down into three categories, scalp health, hair follicle stimulation and general hair appearance and health.
By the way, if you are interested in the benefits of tea, you'll really love our other article 👉 Green Tea Benefits and Why You Should Drink it Everyday
Scalp Health
Catechins in green tea may help protect the scalp from oxidative stress, potentially reducing damage to hair follicles. Green tea can also have anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to a healthier scalp, potentially addressing conditions like dandruff and itching.
Hair Follicle Stimulation
Some studies suggest that catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), may stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth. Green tea may help inhibit dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone associated with hair loss, potentially contributing to the prevention of hair thinning.
Hair Health
In addition to promoting a healthier scalp and hair follicles, there are some positive side effects of green tea on hair itself.
The polyphenols in green tea may support the production of keratin, a key protein in hair structure, potentially enhancing hair texture and strength. Green tea may have moisturizing properties, helping to prevent dryness and brittleness in hair.
Green Tea Side Effects on Skin
In addition to helping your hair, there are also positive green tea side effects on skin. These green tea side effects run the gamut from UV protection to skin hydration. Let’s take a brief look at some of the most important green tea side effects on skin
Antioxidant Protection
Green tea is rich in polyphenols, particularly catechins like epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). These compounds have potent antioxidant properties that help neutralize free radicals, preventing oxidative stress and damage to the skin cells.
Teas like sencha are particularly high in these antioxidants, so if you want to take advantage of these benefits, that is the tea for you!
Reduction of Inflammation
The anti-inflammatory properties of green tea can soothe and calm irritated skin. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions like acne or rosacea.
UV Radiation Defense
Some studies suggest that the polyphenols in green tea may help protect the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. While not a substitute for sunscreen, green tea can provide an additional layer of defense.
Anti-Aging Properties
Green tea may support the preservation of collagen, a key protein responsible for skin firmness and elasticity. This can contribute to a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Antibacterial Effects
Green tea exhibits antibacterial properties, which can be helpful in preventing and managing acne. It may also assist in reducing inflammation associated with breakouts.
Catechins and Skin Tone
The catechins in green tea may help improve skin complexion by promoting a more even skin tone and reducing redness.
Polyphenols and Hydration
Green tea contains polyphenols that may help maintain skin hydration by supporting the skin barrier. This can be beneficial for individuals with dry or dehydrated skin.
How to Drink Green Tea Without the Side Effects
Now that we’ve covered the basics on green tea side effects, let’s talk about how to drink green tea without the side effects. By choosing the right tea and following the right parameters, you can make sure you avoid the side effects of green tea.
Optimal Brewing Methods and Water Temperature
Start with high-quality filtered water to brew your green tea. Tap water with impurities or a strong taste may affect the tea's flavor.
Green tea is best brewed with water that's just below boiling point, around 140–175°F (60–75°C). Boiling water can make the tea bitter and potentially increase the release of tannins, which may contribute to stomach upset.
If you want to become a tea brewing master, you'll want to read our guide 👉 How to Make Loose Leaf Tea explained by Tea experts
Choosing High-Quality Green Tea
Opt for loose-leaf green tea instead of tea bags. Loose-leaf varieties often provide a higher quality and more nuanced flavor. You’ll also want to stick to the pesticide free green teas, as certain pesticides have been associated with negative green tea side effects.
Low Caffeine Teas
If you want to select a low caffeine tea that is easy on the stomach, we recommend you go for Bancha. This tea is made from the older tea leaves, so it is lower in caffeine and higher in minerals.
This tea is sometimes drunk after a meal in order to help with digestion and it is actually the second most popular tea in Japan after sencha!
Shorter Steeping Times
To reduce the extraction of tannins and caffeine, opt for shorter steeping times. Start with 1 minute and adjust according to your taste preferences.
Green Tea Extract Side Effects
Green tea extract has become a popular supplement, so it is important to take a minute to cover the green tea extract side effects. These products can vary, but they tend to contain constituent parts of green tea in higher quantities.
Caffeine-related side Effects of Green Tea
Green tea extract contains caffeine, which can lead to heightened nervousness and jitteriness in some individuals, especially those sensitive to caffeine.
Consuming green tea extract close to bedtime may interfere with sleep patterns due to the stimulating effects of caffeine. It's essential to be mindful of the timing of consumption.
Gastrointestinal Green Tea Side Effects
Some individuals may experience stomach discomfort, nausea, or even mild pain after consuming green tea extract. This can be attributed to the tannins present in green tea, which might irritate the stomach lining in some cases.
Green tea extract may lead to increased acid production, aggravating symptoms of acid reflux in susceptible individuals. Monitoring one's tolerance and adjusting the dosage can help alleviate these issues.
Blood Thinning Medications
Green tea extract contains compounds that might have mild blood-thinning effects. Individuals taking blood-thinning medications should be cautious, as combining these substances may increase the risk of bleeding.
Green tea extract may interfere with the absorption of certain medications, such as iron and some antibiotics. It is advisable to take medications at least a few hours apart from green tea extract consumption, ensuring optimal absorption.
Green Tea Fat Burner Side Effects
Green tea fat burners have gained popularity for their supposed ability to enhance metabolism and aid in weight loss. While many individuals experience positive outcomes, it's essential to be aware of potential green tea fat burner side effects.
If you want to avoid these green tea fat burner side effects, we recommend you just stick to drinking green tea!
Caffeine Sensitivity
Green tea fat burners often contain caffeine to boost metabolism. Individuals sensitive to caffeine may experience an elevated heart rate, palpitations, or feelings of restlessness.
Excessive caffeine intake from fat burners can lead to jitteriness and nervousness, impacting daily activities and overall well-being.
Upset Stomach
The caffeine content in green tea fat burners, coupled with other ingredients, may lead to stomach upset, nausea, or gastrointestinal discomfort.
Some individuals may experience diarrhea, especially if the fat burner contains high levels of caffeine or certain stimulants.
However, keep in mind that overall, green tea has a lot of positive effects on your stomach due to its antioxidants and minerals.
Increased Blood Pressure
The caffeine in green tea fat burners may temporarily raise blood pressure, posing risks for individuals with hypertension. It's crucial for those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions to exercise caution.
Insomnia
Due to the stimulating effects of caffeine, especially when consumed later in the day, green tea fat burners may contribute to difficulties falling asleep or disrupted sleep patterns.
Hypersensitivity
Some individuals may be allergic or hypersensitive to specific ingredients in fat burners, leading to allergic reactions such as itching, rash, or swelling.
Medication Interference
Ingredients in green tea fat burners, such as caffeine and other compounds, may interact with medications. This can affect the efficacy of certain drugs or lead to undesirable side effects.
Diuretic Effects
Some fat burners may have diuretic properties, leading to increased urine production and potential dehydration. Adequate fluid intake is crucial when using such supplements.
By the way, a lot of people think teeth staining is one of the green tea side effects, but to learn why that isn't much of a concern, you can read this article here 👉 Does Matcha Stain Teeth? Here’s What to do About it
Pregnancy
Can you drink green tea while pregnant?
Green tea contains caffeine, albeit in lower amounts compared to coffee or black tea, and it also contains compounds called catechins, which can have both positive and potentially negative effects on pregnancy.
If you want to learn more about the topic, make sure to read the article 👉 Can You Drink Green Tea While Pregnant? Read This First
Side Effect of Green Tea - The Final Verdict
When comparing the side effects of green tea, most of them are positive. There are a few negative side effects that can arise due to over consumption or sensitivity, but these are unlikely for most tea drinkers.
When it comes to green tea any side effects are worth keeping in mind, but you shouldn’t worry too much about them unless you have problems with caffeine.
Green Tea Decaffeinated Side Effects
What about green tea decaffeinated side effects? If the caffeine is the problem, surely a decaffeinated option would be better, right? This depends on the extraction method. A lot of decaf teas are made through a chemical extraction method which can negate a lot of the health benefits.
If you are looking for a green tea that is naturally low in caffeine, you might like our guide 👉 8 Lowest Caffeine Tea: from Lowest to Highest
