Drinking green tea on an empty stomach can have both benefits and drawbacks. Here’s an explanation:
Benefits:
- Boosts Metabolism: Green tea is rich in catechins and caffeine, which can enhance fat oxidation and increase metabolic rate.
- Antioxidant Properties: Consuming it early helps the body absorb its powerful antioxidants (like EGCG) more effectively, offering protection against oxidative stress.
- Promotes Alertness: The caffeine in green tea can help improve mental alertness and focus, making it a good choice to start the day.
- Hydration: It contributes to your hydration first thing in the morning, which is essential after hours of fasting during sleep.
Drawbacks:
- Stomach Irritation: Green tea contains tannins, which can increase stomach acidity, potentially leading to nausea, heartburn, or discomfort, especially on an empty stomach.
- Reduced Iron Absorption: The catechins in green tea may inhibit the absorption of non-heme iron from plant-based foods, so it’s best to wait a while before eating iron-rich meals after drinking green tea.
To minimize the risks, some people prefer drinking green tea after a light breakfast or at a time when their stomach isn’t completely empty.
