Why your matcha obsession may be messing with your iron levels, nutritionists explain
Matcha and the little-known side effect that could affect your blood
- Nutritionists warn that excessive consumption of matcha, a popular Japanese green tea, can contribute to iron deficiency.
- The polyphenols in matcha, such as catechins and tannins, bind to non-haem iron found in plant-based foods, significantly reducing its absorption in the body.
- Vegetarians and vegans are particularly susceptible to this risk as their diets primarily rely on non-haem iron sources like lentils, tofu, and leafy greens.
- To mitigate the risk of iron deficiency, it is advised to avoid drinking matcha with meals, especially for those with plant-based diets or who are already iron deficient.
- Iron deficiency, also known as anaemia, can lead to symptoms such as tiredness, shortness of breath, and pale skin, and is common among teenage girls, vegans, and vegetarians.