Green tea is one of the most consumed beverages in the world. Many people do not like its taste, but still drink it, because of its many health benefits. However, it is because of them that some people drink it in huge quantities. How much green tea can we drink per day and are high doses dangerous?
Studies, which have proven the benefits of green tea fail to reach a definitive answer as to how much of the drink is optimal to drink. According to some results, the health benefits are tangible even with just one glass a day, while others believe that more than 5 are needed. The conclusion, is that the amount depends on the purpose for which it is used.
Studies, which have found, that green tea served to prevent oral cancer claim, that this effect is achieved with 3-4 cups of the drink a day. The same goes for breast cancer.
If we want to reduce the risk of prostate or stomach cancer, the required drinks are increased to 5. To reduce the risk of heart disease, only between 1 and 3 glasses a day are enough.
According to these data, it is clear, that the optimal amount varies between 3 and 5 glasses per day. However, it is important to keep in mind the side effects of these amounts. They come mainly from the caffeine contained in green tea. In case of overdose there is a feeling of anxiety, sleep problems, stomach problems, headaches and palpitations.
Pregnant women should be especially careful with caffeine. The optimal dose of caffeine per day for all people is about 300 mg. A cup of green tea contains between 20 and 40 grams of caffeine, which varies according to variety and method of preparation.
Fans of other beverages that contain it should be especially careful - if you drink a few coffees a day, it would be risky to drink green tea in large quantities. Caffeine is also found in black tea, carbonated and energy drinks and some medications.
Green tea also contains catechin, which can interfere with iron absorption. In large quantities, it can even lead to iron deficiency anemia. For healthy people, green tea is not a problem.
However, those who are generally at or at risk of iron deficiency should be careful - infants, babies, pregnant women, menstruating women, patients with internal bleeding or hemodialysis.
In conclusion - up to 3 cups of green tea a day are absolutely safe. If you suffer from a disease or are pregnant and you want or need to consume amounts above these, then calculate: how much caffeine and how much catechin you intake daily. If you still have concerns, it is advisable to consult a doctor.
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