Consuming green tea in excess may be harmful

Darielle Britto | Oct 23, 2019, 13:15 IST
Green tea has become a huge wellness trend over the years due to its various health benefits. Multiples studies suggest this beverage can help fight inflammation, improve brain function, reduce the risk of heart disease, and aid weight loss. However, they say too much of a good thing can be bad and this tea is no exception. Here are some reasons why too much green tea may be unhealthy.

* May cause acid reflux: Drinking a lot of green tea when you have not eaten anything may result in heartburn or acid reflux. Avoid consuming this beverage for a while if this is an issue you face.

* May reduce iron absorption: Iron is necessary to maintain a healthy body. However, certain properties found in green tea could reduce iron absorption obtained from food. Drink this beverage in moderation and consult with your doctor before you make any changes to your diet.

*May cause a headache: If you are consuming a lot of green tea, you may be increasing your caffeine intake, which could make you vomit and feel dizzy. It may also cause you to suffer from a bad case of a headache.

* May contain too much caffeine: If your caffeine intake is too much, then you might want to be careful about how much green tea you consume. Excess amounts of caffeine in your system may cause sleep disruption and could even trigger anxiety.

While you shouldn't avoid it completely, experts urge people to consume this beverage in moderation. "In the Far East, green tea has been used as a treatment for a variety of conditions, ranging from arthritis to weight loss, as well as a preventative measure for diseases such as cancer. But the evidence for the majority of these conditions is weak or lacking," Alison Hornby, a dietitian for the British Dietetic Association (BDA), told a news portal. She further added that "it appears to be safe in moderate amounts, so lovers of green tea can continue to enjoy it."

So just how much green tea should you be drinking a day? Experts say three cups maximum is enough.

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