A new study by researchers at the Kaplan Medical Center in Israel suggests that drinking too much green tea can cause significant liver damage.
Green tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world, and the popularity of its use for weight loss is increasing.
Plant-based beverages and other active ingredients such as green tea are touted as health products with anti-inflammatory properties, the ability to help prevent cancer, control heart disorders and other benefits.
However, evidence has been accumulating about possible health damage caused by the consumption of this drink — often presented as a “miracle cure” for countless ailments, notes the The Jerusalem Post.
Now, a study carried out by researchers at the Kaplan Medical Center in Israel shows that these products can damage the liverwith symptoms ranging from organ inflammation to complete liver failure.
The study, conducted by gastroenterology and internal medicine specialist Steven Melnickhe was published in December in GastroHep magazine.
According to the study, there are over 100 documented cases of inflammationthat of the liver due to the consumption of green tea. This inflammation is the direct result of botanical toxins in the tea plant, probably resulting from a metabolic reaction.
In some cases, drinking green tea in excess led directly to a picture of liver failure, especially in women.
It’s not clear what exactly are the components of green tea that cause liver damage, but the study found strong evidence that its consumption with other medicines and herbs can lead to severe liver disease.
“It is important to note that liver inflammation and liver failure due to green tea consumption are rare“, emphasizes Melnick, quoted by the Israeli newspaper.
“It is difficult to establish a direct link between drinking green tea and liver failure. However, evidence and cases have accumulated around the world of people who contracted hepatitis after drinking too much green tea“.
Melnick also mentions the case of a 23-year-old patient who drank 2 to 3 cups of green tea every day. Within a month, says the researcher, his condition deteriorated to the point that a liver transplant was necessary.
“People who consume these types of products should be aware of the possibility of complications — and consult their GP if suspicious symptoms appear,” advises Melnick.
ZAP // 
