Who Shouldn't Use Green Tea?

Green tea is one of the world's oldest beverages, and it is still treasured for its earthy taste and its many health benefits. Antioxidants and caffeine in green tea can help to prevent and treat dozens, if not hundreds, of medical conditions. Green tea is very safe when it is consumed in moderate amounts as part of a healthy diet, but there are some green tea contraindications. People who are in the following high-risk categories should not use green tea except under the careful guidance of a qualified health care provider.

Pregnant Women

Large amounts of green tea are contraindicated for expectant mothers. Caffeine in green tea can increae the risk of miscarriage and other adverse efects for hte mother and baby. Do not exceed more than two cups of green tea per day during any stage of gestation. Decaffeinated formulas may be acceptable in larger amounts; consult your prenatal health care provider for guidelines regarding caffeinated foods and beverages.

Nursing Mothers

Caffeine in green tea can cross into breast milk, making the breastfed child anxious and restless. You may drink two cups of green tea per day while nursing, and possibly more if your child is older or you wait a long period of time between nursing sessions, you may be able to drink larger amounts safely. Green tea supplements, which are isolated and concentrated, are not safe for breastfeeding mothers.

People with Anemia

If you have iron-deficiency anemia, you should not drink green tea. Tannins in green tea leaf can decrease iron absorption, making anemia worse.

People with Anxiety Disorders

Use green tea only under your physician's guidance if you have an anxiety disorder such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Caffeine in green tea can worsen anxiety symptoms. Stop drinking green tea if your symptoms worsen.

People with Bleeding Disorders

Bleeding disorders like von Willebrand disease and hemophilia are regarded as green tea contraindications. Caffeine can increase the risk of bleeding, increasing your chances of a life-threatening hemorrhagic episode.

People with Cardiac Arrhythmia

Caffeine in green tea can contribute to arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat. Do not use caffeinated green tea if you have cardiac arrhythmia.

People with Liver Disease

It is safe to drink green tea if you have liver disease; the beverage may actually help to treat these conditions. However, isolated green tea extract supplements have caused liver damage in some people. These extract supplements may make liver disease worse, so it is best to avoid them.