Green tea caffeine: Benefits & Side Effects

Introduction

Green tea is mainly derived from the plant Camellia Sinensis. It is basically unfermented that it is not exposed to air and additives C. Sinensis leaves. Almost 20% of the world population consumed green tea. Taking green tea is good for health but excess causes side effects because of green tea caffeine.

What are the medicinally beneficial components and functions of green tea?

Polyphenolic compounds (catechins, epicatechin (EC), epicatechin-3-gallate (ECG), epigallocatechin (EGC), and epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG)). Gallic acid, quercetin, kaempferol, myricetin, and caffeic acid.
Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) acts as an anti-oxidant: inhibits and kills cancer cells without harming healthy tissue. Lowers LDL cholesterol levels, inhibits the abnormal blood clots, reduction of platelet aggregation, lipid regulation and inhibition of proliferation and migration of smooth muscle cells. Boost the immune system.

What are the potential side effects of green tea?

1. Caffeine

Green tea contains 30-60 mg caffeine per 6 to 8 oz cup. Although the amount is normal or less than the average cup of coffee (100 mg) but it is generally consumed in greater amounts because of its highlighted advantages.

2. Anemia

It also contains tannins that bond with iron and makes iron hard to absorb. Per cup reduces 30 to 60 percent absorption leads to the anemic condition. Iron deficiency anemia can cause feelings of weakness, shortness of breath, irritability, headaches, and irregular heartbeat. So anemic patients should use it cautiously if taken in a high amount.

3. Dehydration

Green tea also is a natural diuretic. Therefore, drinking extreme amounts of green tea (more than five cups /day) causes excessive urination leading to dehydration and electrolyte disproportion. Dehydration can also lead to headaches, lethargy, changed heart rate, and distress.

4. Folate deficiency

According to the website World’s Healthiest Foods, one cup of green tea supplies 20 to 35 mg of Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) which interferes with folate use in cells (American Association of Cancer Research study).

What is Folate?

Folate is important for the development of new DNA and it prevents any negative changes in the DNA from cancers. Besides these, it helps in RBC production, Protect heart disease, and prevents anemia.

Benefits and side effects of Green Tea in brief

Health benefits of green tea

1. Anticancer
2. Prevents liver disease
3. Prevents heart disease
4. Antidiabetics
5. Skin disorder
6. Reduce hair loss
7. Weight loss.

Side effects of green tea 

1. Nausea

2. Vomiting

3. Dehydration

4. Lethargy

5. Dizziness

6. Insomnia

7. Tremors

8. Restlessness

9. Confusion

10. Diuresis

11. Heart rate irregularities

12. Psychomotor agitation

How many cups of green tea should I consume every day?

Depending on the brand, two to three cups of green tea per day (for a total of 240–320 mg polyphenols) or 100–750 mg per day of standardized green tea extract is recommended