Green tea is loved by all, especially by weight-loss enthusiasts. It is packed with catechin polyphenols, especially called as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a powerful antioxidant that offers several health benefits. From heart health to weight management, green tea is often praised for its versatility and wellness perks. However, there is an important point that should be kept in mind while consuming green tea, that is with some compounds green tea does not go that well, and it interferes with how the body absorbs or processes certain medications. It is worth knowing which combinations may not be the best idea.
Iron deficiency is quite common, especially among women, vegetarians and older adults, and for these reasons, iron supplements or prenatal vitamins rich in iron are often recommended. A study published inFrontiers, indicate that green tea consumption is linked to lower serum ferritin levels, particularly in men and postmenopausal women, due to its high content of tannins and polyphenols. The effects is often stronger when green tea is consumed with or right after meals.
B group vitamins
Green tea might also interfere with the progress of B group of vitamins, particularly B12 and Folic acid. The reason being, caffeine and polyphenols present in green tea can reduce the body’s ability to convert folic acid into its active form, which is necessary for healthy cell growth. The research in this sphere is limited, because this deficiency only occurs when people consume green tea in larger amounts. As a precaution, it still may be wise to take your B vitamin supplement at a different time than your green tea to support optimal absorption. A substance which is called tannins, can inhibit the absorption of vitamin B, especially B12, a research published in PubMed Central, claims that foods rich in tannins, tea or coffee, reduces the level of vitamin B, thiamin.
Blood thinning supplements
Blood thinners such as warfarin, are known to interact with Vitamin K, which plays a key role in blood clotting. There are certain supplements such as fish oil, garlic, ginseng, have mild-blood thinning effects and when they are combined with green tea or its extracts, this can alter how effectively the blood clots. Green tea contains traces of vitamin K, which can reduce the effectiveness of blood-thinning medications, so better check with your doctor, before incorporating green tea daily in your regimen. According to the Cleveland Clinic, green tea, being a source of vitamin K, affects the function of blood thinners.
Stimulant-based supplements
Green tea contains caffeine and catechins, which is less than a typical cup of coffee but still, it can have enough effect. Theophylline and theobromine which are mild stimulants, that can cause rapid heartbeat and high blood pressure when consumed along with green tea. A study published inPubMed central explains how the catechins affect the body, and how green tea is effective in reducing the effects of many drugs, including that of heart, blood pressure and cholesterol medications.In some cases, it can even increase drug levels, like with sildenafil. Not all medications are affected, but the interactions can impact drug safety and effectiveness.For you, if green tea is a daily habit, consult the healthcare provider about the best time to take these supplements. Sometimes, minor adjustment such as drink green tea an hour before or after can make a big difference.Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only, before adopting advice, please consult a medical health professional.
