Yes, it's possible to drink too much green tea. While generally healthy, excessive consumption can lead to several negative consequences primarily due to its caffeine content and potential interaction with iron absorption.
Potential Negative Effects of Excessive Green Tea Consumption:
- Caffeine-related issues: High caffeine intake from green tea can cause irritability, insomnia, heart palpitations, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, and loss of appetite. The severity depends on individual sensitivity and the amount consumed. For example, drinking 10 cups of green tea daily is considered excessive and can trigger these symptoms (HealthifyMe Blog). Healthline also notes that excessive caffeine can increase anxiety and interfere with sleep. The FDA notes variations in caffeine content across different teas and coffee but stresses that excessive caffeine is a concern. FDA
- Iron absorption interference: Large quantities of green tea can hinder iron absorption, potentially leading to iron deficiency anemia (PMC). This is particularly relevant for individuals already at risk of iron deficiency. PMC
- Other potential side effects: Reports suggest that excessive green tea consumption, in rare cases, might contribute to liver problems (TheHealthSite). Furthermore, those with pre-existing conditions, such as blood-thinning issues, should exercise caution (TheHealthSite). TheHealthSite
Determining Your Safe Intake:
The ideal amount of green tea varies from person to person, depending on factors like caffeine sensitivity, overall health, and other dietary habits. If you experience any negative effects, reduce your intake. If symptoms persist, consult a doctor. The Mount Sinai website recommends paying attention to symptoms like vomiting as a sign of potential overdose. Mount Sinai
