Drinking green tea on an empty stomach has become one of the talks of many health-conscious individuals. Many people have argued that they can drink green tea empty stomach because of its multiple health advantages. Green tea is known for all its health benefits, though the time of intake can significantly impact the body. Green tea is made from leaves of the Camellia sinensis and is reputed to have a high composition of antioxidants, mainly catechins. It is associated with various health benefits like metabolism, improved brain functions, and protection against diseases related to cardiovascular conditions and specific types of cancers.
Can Green Tea Be Taken Empty Stomach?
The answer to the question of can drink green tea empty stomach is not quite simple. A few health experts believe one should drink green tea on an empty stomach to attain better efficacy, while others caution against it due to adverse reactions. The general concern arises from the tannins added to green tea, which raise acidity inside the stomach. This severe acidity might cause a lot of discomfort, nausea, and even constipation in some instances, especially in persons already suffering from chronic problems related to the gastrointestinal system.
Benefits of Drinking Green Tea in Empty Stomach
With no doubt, we can say that green tea benefits us in several ways, but the question comes here is that- do the same benefits can be availed if this tea is consumed on an empty stomach? Well, the answer is no, we cannot.
Though you can drink green tea in the morning but on an empty stomach, with some snacks. You can opt to drink it with two whole-grain biscuits. Then you can avail the below listed empty stomach green tea benefits:
Increases Metabolism:
Green tea is packed with catechins, which support the process of fat oxidation and thereby increase metabolic rate. Consumption of this beverage early in the morning could give a jumpstart to your metabolism for that day.
Improves digestion:
The mild caffeine and polyphenols present in green tea can stimulate digestion and, therefore, may be helpful for bloating and regularity of the bowel.
Improves hydration:
Starting your day with a cup of green tea rehydrates the body after a night of zero water or other fluids intake.
Supports detoxification:
Green tea is a rich source of antioxidants for body detoxification, stimulation of liver function, and overall health.
Reduces morning inflammation:
These anti-inflammatory properties help with less puffiness and redness, hence refreshingly consumed in the morning.
Provides a gentle energy boost:
Unlike the action of coffee that promotes spikes in energy and then develops crashes, one of the notable benefits of drinking green tea in empty stomach offers an energy boost that is more sustainable due to the lower caffeine content and the amino acid L-theanine present.
Boosts Mental Clarity:
The interaction of caffeine and L-theanine in green tea improves concentration and clarity of the mind. Thus, it is also an excellent way to start the day.
Loss of weight:
Green tea on an empty stomach can reduce appetite and raise fat-burning levels, helping those seeking to reduce their weight.
The above benefits of drinking green tea empty stomach are some ways you can maintain a healthy gut routine, but we have to make sure to include snacks along with this tea.
Disadvantages of Drinking Green Tea Empty Stomach
Some disadvantages of drinking green tea empty stomach include the following:
Stomach Upset:
Increased acidity gives rise to many problems, such as discomfort, nausea, and other worst conditions like acid reflux or peptic ulcers.
Poor Iron Absorption:
Tannins in green tea will eventually impede the absorption of non-heme iron in your body, which must be forbidden for frail people or those who report an iron deficiency.
Increased Heart Rate:
The quantity of caffeine may trigger the adrenal glands, which further results in increased heart rate and blood pressure and is not desirable for every individual, especially for heart patients.
Adrenal Fatigue:
Prolonged intake in excessive amounts results in adrenal fatigue, which presents symptoms like chronic fatigue and hormonal imbalance.
Best Practices for Drinking Green Tea
To put the benefits of green tea into practice with minimal defects, here are some of the best ways:
Timing:
As opposed to the direct intake of green tea on an empty stomach, it should preferably be taken after breakfast or after a light snack. And if you are taking it in the morning (on an empty stomach), make sure you drink it with some snacks. The underlying factor here is that the foods serve to buffer the acidity in the stomach.
Quality Matters:
High-quality green teas tend to be gentler on the stomach and are preferably organic without additives.
Hydration:
Make sure you drink enough water during the day. Of course, green tea can count toward your fluid intake, but you shouldn’t substitute water with it.
Listen to Your Body:
Be attentive to how your body reacts to drinking green tea empty stomach. You can shift how you consume the drink if you are uncomfortable with the feeling.
Consult a Healthcare Provider:
If you have health conditions like acid reflux, peptic ulcers, or anaemia, then it is best to consult with your health professional before including green tea in your daily routine.
Final Thoughts
While green tea on an empty stomach can do many good things to one’s body, the benefits need to mull over the potential risks and adverse effects that the activity may bring forward. Individuals respond differently depending on their medical history, food consumption, and personal threshold. For green tea lovers, taking it with a light meal or snack is advisable to optimise its beneficial effects while minimising its negative consequences. Drinking green tea empty stomach is a personal choice and health concern. Paying attention to how and when you drink green tea makes the difference in attaining its many benefits while preserving one’s general well-being.
