Can Green Tea Upset Your Stomach?
Green tea has become popular for its many health benefits, including its ability to help with weight loss and promoting healthy digestion. However, like all drinks, green tea could upset your stomach for a variety of reasons.
Green Tea Caffeine Content
Green tea contains about one-third of the amount of caffeine compared to coffee, but it is still something to be aware of. Too much caffeine can cause an upset stomach and diarrhea due to the stimulant effect of caffeine on your digestive system. If you are sensitive to caffeine, you may want to limit your intake or avoid green tea altogether.
Tannins in Green Tea
Green tea also contains tannins, which are compounds that can affect digestion due to its astringent properties. Tannins can bind to proteins, carbohydrates and other substances in the digestive tract and slow digestion, leading to stomach upset, bloating and nausea.
Herbs and Spices in Green Tea
Some green teas are flavored with herbs and spices which can cause stomach upset in individuals who are sensitive to them. For instance, some green teas contain ginger, which can cause heartburn and other digestive issues for some people.
What To Do
If you’re experiencing stomach upset from drinking green tea, there are a few things you can do to minimize its effects.
- Limit your intake. Drink no more than one cup of green tea per day and avoid drinking it on an empty stomach.
- Choose the right type. Opt for a milder type of green tea like Genmaicha or Bancha, as they’re lower in tannins and caffeine.
- Steep correctly. Be sure not to steep green tea for too long, as this can lead to higher levels of caffeine, tannins and other compounds that may upset your stomach.
It is important to note that if your symptoms persist after trying the aforementioned, you should speak to your healthcare provider as it could be a sign of an underlying health problem.
