Can Drinking Green Tea on an Empty Stomach Cause Nausea?

Green tea is a popular drink, which is known for its rich antioxidant properties. It is a go-to morning beverage for many health enthusiasts. However, many individuals have complained of experiencing unexpected waves of nausea or acidic discomfort when drinking it on an empty stomach. To understand exactly why this happens and how to prevent it, we consulted clinical dietitians, who explained the science behind this morning brew.

Let us take a look at what Ms Edwina Raj, Head of Services, Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore and Ms Archana, Chief Dietitian, KIMS Hospitals, Mahadevapura, Bengaluru, have to say about this.

Can Drinking Green Tea on an Empty Stomach Cause Nausea?

Ms Raj says that drinking green tea on an empty stomach can cause nausea in some people because it contains natural compounds called tannins, which may increase stomach acid and irritate the stomach lining. The expert further explains, “It also contains caffeine, which can trigger stomach discomfort, acid reflux, or a feeling of queasiness, especially in people with a sensitive stomach or those who are not used to drinking tea without food.”

Adding to this, Ms Archana says, “Yes, drinking green tea on an empty stomach can cause nausea in some instances. In my practice as a dietitian, I observe this quite frequently, especially among those who are sensitive to caffeine and those who suffer from excessive stomach acidity.”

Despite its few cons, green tea is a preferred drink because it has multiple health benefits. A 2020 study, published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, analysed past research to understand how drinking green tea is linked to the risk of getting cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. The research found that green tea is good for your overall health, especially when it comes to lowering the chances of heart disease and certain types of cancer. However, the study concluded that whether green tea helps prevent diabetes or aids in weight loss is less clear and needs more research. 

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Tips To Reduce Nausea Caused By Green Tea

Ms Raj says that to reduce the chances of nausea, you can follow these tips:

• It is better to drink green tea after a light meal or snack rather than on an empty stomach.
• Avoid having multiple cups first thing in the morning.
• If you continue to feel sick after drinking green tea, reduce the amount, choose a lower-caffeine variety, or speak to a doctor or dietitian to rule out any underlying digestive issues.

Ms Archana adds that in case you love green tea but experience nausea from it, have it after your breakfast meal or together with some snacks like nuts and whole wheat bread. “Do not drink green tea on an empty stomach, particularly if you suffer from acidity problems. Staying hydrated and opting for a tea variety with less caffeine can also be useful,” she suggests.

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Which Green Tea Component Causes Nausea?

Ms Archana says that green tea provides many health benefits, thanks to its high levels of antioxidants, but it does not suit everyone in the same manner.

So which factors related to green tea lead to nausea? The expert answers, “Green tea consists of both caffeine and tannins that irritate the stomach lining upon consumption without food. The tannins present in green tea can cause increased acidity of the stomach, causing the person to experience nausea, stomach upset, bloating, and heartburn. Caffeine can also cause additional stimulation of acid production in the stomach, making the symptoms even worse in those who already have problems with gastritis and acid reflux.”

Ms Archana further explains, “The likelihood of nausea can also depend on the strength of the drink, the amount of green tea that one drinks, and individual sensitivity to the beverage. If one drinks multiple strong cups of green tea right after getting up, then the chances of experiencing nausea increase.”

ALSO READ- Green Tea and Heart Health: How Does It Affect Cholesterol and Blood Pressure?

Conclusion 

To summarise, green tea is an excellent addition to a healthy lifestyle. However, its potent combination of tannins and caffeine may upset an empty stomach. To reap its amazing health benefits without the uncomfortable nausea, make it a habit to enjoy your tea after a meal or along with a light snack. Always listen to your body and adjust your brewing strength or schedule to find what works best for your digestive system.