Does green tea limit iron absorption in our bodies?
While the benefits of green tea are well known, there are some side effects. Does green tea limit iron absorption? The answer is yes: iron levels may be affected by excessive green tea consumption. However, this side effect is only a concern in cases of high green tea consumption. Indeed, excessive consumption of green tea (more than one and a half litres per day) could affect the body's absorption of iron. Remember that a person with a varied and balanced diet can safely drink one or two cups of green tea during the day without any risk.
How can you tell if you have an iron deficiency?
A person suffering from anaemia (due to an occasional iron deficiency) may experience unusual fatigue, headaches or dizziness. This iron deficiency is characterised by unusual fatigue, paleness, headaches, dizziness… If in doubt, Kusmi advises you to consult your doctor.
If you are concerned that your iron levels may decrease because of your high consumption of green tea, try taking your tea breaks away from mealtimes.
Everything you need to know about iron
Iron is a mineral that plays an essential role in the proper functioning of the body. We need to pay attention to our iron requirements because it plays an important role in our health.
Iron is necessary for the production of:
- Haemoglobin (a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen around the body).
- Myoglobin (a muscle protein that stores oxygen).
- Enzymes involved in respiration and DNA synthesis**.
Iron and diet
Did you know? As with vitamin C, the body is unable to produce iron itself. That is why we must meet our daily requirements through our diet. Hence the well-known saying: eat a varied, balanced diet, notably to diversify sources of vitamins, minerals and nutrients.
What are dietary sources of iron
Animal sources are rich in iron. For example, foods richest in iron include black pudding, seafood, offal and red meat.
Of course, vegetarian diets are not devoid of iron. Wholegrain cereals, nuts, legumes (lentils) and certain green vegetables (spinach) are also good sources of iron.
Is green tea consumption problematic for some people?
Pregnant women
Pregnancy is a period during which iron levels should be monitored. That is why, during pregnancy or breastfeeding, it is advisable not to drink a cup of tea during or immediately after meals, so as not to alter your iron levels.
People with anaemia
Kusmi is far from being a doctor. If in doubt, ask your doctor. Green tea consumed in large quantities can nevertheless affect your body's absorption of iron. If you know you are sensitive, perhaps choose black tea, white tea or organic infusions instead… Trust us, you are sure to find something you love in our range of organic teas and infusions made in Normandy.
What alternative is there to green tea?
100% theine-free infusions
100% theine-free and organic, an infusion is always a delicious alternative that we love to recommend to our customers. Theine-free, our infusions are suitable for pregnant women and children and will have no impact on the body's absorption of iron. Fruit infusion, rooibos, spiced herbal tea… the choice is wide at Kusmi Tea.
In conclusion, with a balanced diet and unless consumed in large quantities, green tea does not seriously affect the body's absorption of iron.
However, to limit the risks:
- Limit your consumption and do not drink more than one and a half litres of green tea per day.
- Ideally, drink your green tea away from mealtimes.
- Try organic infusions that are 100% theine-free.
** According to the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (Anses)