Medical Xpress talked about the effect of matcha on iron levels

Matcha's popularity continues to grow, but recently information has been appearing on social media that this drink may be harmful to people with low iron levels. Studies show that matcha can actually affect the absorption of iron, as the components contained in it can bind to iron and interfere with its absorption. This was reported in the journal Medical Xpress.

Matcha is a powder made from dried and crushed leaves of green tea (Camellia sinensis). Recently, this drink has become popular as an additive to various dishes and drinks. It contains beneficial substances such as fiber and polyphenols, as well as caffeine. Including matcha in a balanced diet can help improve brain activity and maintain normal blood pressure.

However, despite its beneficial properties, research shows that consuming large amounts of green tea may be associated with lower iron levels in the body.

Iron is an important trace element that helps transport oxygen through the body and supports many other biological processes. Since our body cannot synthesize iron, we need to get it from food. However, certain foods such as coffee, red wine, calcium, and matcha can interfere with iron absorption.

The two main components in green tea — polyphenols and phytic acid (or phytate) — can interfere with the absorption of iron. Despite their beneficial properties, they bind to iron, preventing its absorption by the body. Polyphenols and phytic acid are also found in other teas, as well as nuts, cereals, and legumes.

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Research has shown that people who drink three or more cups of green tea a day have lower levels of iron in their blood, but this does not necessarily lead to iron deficiency. However, other studies have shown that moderate consumption of green tea can lead to iron deficiency anemia.

It is important not only the amount of matcha, but also the time of its consumption. It is recommended to drink green tea separately from food, preferably with an interval of at least one hour, in order to reduce the effect on iron absorption.

Many other factors in your diet can affect the absorption of iron. For example, eating foods rich in vitamin C, such as peppers, broccoli, or kiwi, promotes better iron absorption. To maintain optimal iron levels, add beans, lentils, meat, fish, and fortified cereals to your diet.

If you are concerned about your iron levels, it is worth contacting a specialist, especially if you experience symptoms of iron deficiency such as fatigue, weakness, or dizziness. A blood test will help to detect low iron levels, and a doctor or nutritionist will help you cope with the deficiency.

Endocrinologist, internist, nutritionist of the highest category of the KDC NCC No. 2 of the Federal State Budgetary Budgetary Institution "RNC named after Academician of B.V. Petrovsky Evgenia Ivanova told Izvestia that unexplained weight loss is a serious symptom that may indicate systemic diseases. A decrease in body weight of more than 5% over the past 6-12 months for no apparent reason is a good reason to immediately consult a doctor. The doctor recommended starting the examination with a visit to a therapist, who will prescribe primary tests and, if necessary, refer you to a specialist endocrinologist, gastroenterologist or oncologist.

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