Is it Okay to Drink Green Tea on an Empty Stomach?

Green Tea On Empty Stomach: Drinking Guide

That brings us back to that big question: is it safe to drink green tea on an empty stomach? Green tea can lower the body's ability to absorb iron naturally, especially for people suffering from anemia. Let’s first watch this video and find out if it is really safe.

First of all, Green Tea is Healthy

Consuming green tea not only supplies caffeine to give us a gentle energy boost, but it also contains antioxidants and substances that contribute to lowering blood pressure. However, it can have negative effects such as impacting iron absorption in people suffering from anemia, increasing heart rate and blood pressure, and causing stomach issues and increased stomach acidity when consumed on an empty stomach. On the positive side, it’s proven to help decrease rates of esophageal cancer—and potentially other cancers as well—and has a positive influence on blood cholesterol, weight loss, increased energy, natural disease prevention, and enhanced blood flow.

(This post discusses the connection between green tea and lowering blood pressure.)

According to IF guru, author, and nephrologist Dr. Jason Fung—who many turn to as one of the ultimate authorities in intermittent fasting—adding tea during the fasting period does not appreciably raise blood sugar. Using natural sweeteners like stevia and monk fruit that don't change blood sugar much can be beneficial when adding them to beverages like green tea during fasting. And in the case of green tea, it can have small but measurably positive effects on metabolism.

Green tea contains polyphenols, which help with fat oxidation and the rate at which the body uses calories. Dr. Fung encourages people to drink up, both during fasting and during feeding periods.

However, there is a catch-22 with deriving benefits from green tea while fasting. In addition to its many benefits, green tea is also high in tannins, which increase stomach acids. For most, this won't be a problem. But for someone with peptic ulcers or gastric reflux, it may cause heartburn or other stomach distress.

In that case, consuming green tea on an empty stomach might not be the best option for you.

(Learn all about tannins and the science behind green tea in this post.)

Some health experts warn of an acidic stomach for some. However, other sources claim the opposite: that green tea is a more gentle alternative than either black tea or coffee.

This might make a difference, in particular for those who are doing IF, as the only beverages allowed aside from water all have some component of possibly causing stomach acidity on an empty stomach or during fasts. The question is whether or not this is tolerable for the individual.

The only way to know whether green tea can be consumed comfortably during your own fasting periods is to go ahead and give it a try. Remember, green tea is beneficial to us whether we are fasting or not, so there's no harm in trying. We have few choices for drinks during fast periods, and there's no reason to discount green tea as a viable and potentially quite beneficial option.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drinking Green Tea on an Empty Stomach

1. Can drinking green tea on an empty stomach affect iron absorption?

Yes, drinking green tea on an empty stomach can affect iron absorption. Green tea contains tannins, which can inhibit the absorption of non-heme iron (the type of iron found in plant-based foods). If you have anemia or are at risk of iron deficiency, it's advisable to consume green tea between meals rather than on an empty stomach. This way, you can still enjoy its benefits without significantly impacting iron absorption.

2. How can I minimize stomach upset if I want to drink green tea during fasting?

To minimize stomach upset when drinking green tea on an empty stomach, consider these tips:

• Choose High-Quality Green Tea: Opt for higher-quality green tea, which often has a milder effect on the stomach.
• Add a Small Amount of Food: If you experience discomfort, having a small, bland snack before your green tea might help reduce irritation.
• Drink Slowly: Sip your green tea slowly to allow your stomach to adjust and avoid overwhelming it with acidity.

If you have conditions like peptic ulcers or gastric reflux, consult your healthcare provider before incorporating green tea into your fasting routine.

3. Is it okay to add sweeteners or milk to green tea during fasting periods?

During intermittent fasting, adding sweeteners or milk to green tea can potentially break your fast, depending on your fasting goals. For those looking to maintain a strict fast, it's best to avoid sweeteners and milk as they can impact blood sugar levels and caloric intake. If you prefer a touch of sweetness, natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit are generally considered acceptable in small amounts. Always check how your body responds and consult with a nutritionist if you have specific dietary goals.

Do you want to shop for green tea products you'll enjoy whether you're fasting or not? Click here to find an incredible selection to choose from!

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