Clinical studies have proven green tea's effectiveness in treating or preventing a number of ailments. It may reduce the risk of heart disease and several types of cancer, according to the University of Maryland. Green tea also lowers cholesterol and may boost your metabolism to aid in weight loss. This natural remedy rarely causes side effects, according to the University of Michigan Health System, but there are some common adverse reactions.
Caffeine-Related
The most common side effects when taking a green tea supplement include anxiety, irritability, dizziness, heart palpitations and insomnia due to the plant's caffeine content, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you experience these or similar side effects, consider trying one of the many decaffeinated green tea tablets available.
Iron Deficiency
Women taking green tea supplements should avoid taking the tablets with meals. The University of Michigan Health System reports that green tea may inhibit the absorption of certain types of iron by 26 percent if taken with a meal. Over time, this could lead to an iron deficiency.
Liver Damage
Several cases of liver damage have been reported by individuals using weight-loss supplements containing green tea, reports University of Michigan Health System. However, these weight-loss products often contain other ingredients in addition to green tea, so it is uncertain what actually caused the liver damage in these instances. Still, researchers warn against taking large doses of concentrated green tea extract.
Possible Drug Interactions
Green tea may reduce or inhibit the effects of certain medications, including adenosine, benzodiazepines, clozapine and lithium. Taking green tea while on medications for blood pressure, beta-blockers, monoamine oxidase inhibitors or phenylpropanolamine may cause an unsafe rise in blood pressure. Ephedrine and oral contraceptives may increase the effects of caffeine and cause agitation, insomnia or tremors. If you take medication for any condition, talk to your doctor before taking green tea supplements.
Additional Precautions
If you have a kidney disorder, heart problems, ulcers or anxiety, you should avoid green tea, warns the University of Maryland Medical Center. Pregnant or breastfeeding women also should not take green tea.
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