Why Am I Not Feeling Well After Taking Matcha?

Matcha contains the unique amino acid L-theanine, which is known for promoting a state of 'calm alertness,' yet many people still wonder, 'why am I not feeling well after taking matcha?'. The answer often involves a combination of individual sensitivity, consumption habits, and the quality of the matcha itself.

Quick Summary

This article explores the various reasons behind feeling sick or unwell after consuming matcha, discussing caffeine sensitivity, digestive irritation, low-quality products, and other potential factors, while offering practical solutions.

Key Points

• Caffeine Sensitivity: Matcha contains caffeine that can cause jitters, anxiety, and insomnia in sensitive individuals, especially if consumed in excess.

• Digestive Irritation: Tannins in matcha can increase stomach acid, leading to nausea and stomach upset, particularly on an empty stomach.

• Poor Quality Matcha: Low-grade matcha has more bitter tannins and may contain heavy metals or pesticides, contributing to adverse reactions.

• Inhibition of Iron Absorption: The compounds in matcha can interfere with the absorption of non-heme iron from plant-based foods, especially when consumed with meals.

• Mindful Preparation: Drinking with food, using smaller portions, and brewing with cooler water can help mitigate side effects for sensitive individuals.

• Potential Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some people may have a mild allergic reaction to the tea proteins, resulting in symptoms like rashes or hives.

Common Reasons for Feeling Unwell After Matcha

Caffeine Sensitivity and Overconsumption

Although matcha contains L-theanine, which promotes relaxation and mitigates the jittery effects often associated with coffee, it still contains a significant amount of caffeine. A typical serving has around 70mg of caffeine, which can affect individuals with low caffeine tolerance. Consuming too much matcha, or drinking it too quickly, can lead to side effects such as anxiety, jitters, rapid heartbeat, and insomnia. Some people are genetically predisposed to being 'slow metabolizers' of caffeine, making them more susceptible to these negative effects. It is important to monitor your overall caffeine intake from all sources to prevent overstimulation.

Digestive Distress and Tannins

One of the most frequent reasons for feeling unwell after drinking matcha, particularly nausea or an upset stomach, is the high concentration of tannins. Tannins are natural compounds also found in coffee and black tea that can irritate the stomach lining and temporarily increase stomach acid levels. This effect is often magnified when matcha is consumed on an empty stomach. Low-quality matcha tends to have higher levels of these harsh tannins, while premium, ceremonial-grade matcha contains less. Adding milk or consuming matcha with a light snack can help buffer this effect.

Quality and Contaminants

Not all matcha is created equal, and the quality of the powder plays a crucial role in how it affects your body. Low-grade, culinary matcha often uses older, lower-quality tea leaves that have a more bitter flavor due to higher tannin content. More importantly, inferior or unregulated products, particularly from outside traditional growing regions, may contain harmful contaminants. Because you consume the entire tea leaf, there is a risk of ingesting heavy metals like lead or traces of pesticides if the soil or processing is contaminated. Always choose organic, high-quality matcha from reputable sources that provide transparent testing results.

The Impact on Iron Absorption

For individuals already prone to iron deficiency, such as vegans, vegetarians, or women of childbearing age, consuming matcha near mealtimes can exacerbate the issue. The catechins and tannins in green tea can bind to non-heme iron (from plant-based sources), hindering its absorption in the body. To prevent this, it is recommended to drink matcha at least an hour before or after eating an iron-rich meal or taking an iron supplement. Pairing your iron sources with vitamin C can also help counteract this effect.

Potential Liver Strain

While extremely rare and primarily associated with high-dose green tea extracts, excessive consumption of matcha has been linked to potential liver issues. This is not a concern for the average moderate drinker but is an important consideration for those consuming several cups daily or taking concentrated supplements. Moderation is key to enjoying matcha's benefits safely without stressing the liver.

Comparison of Matcha Grade and Impact

Feature	Ceremonial-Grade Matcha	Culinary-Grade Matcha	Impact on Feeling Unwell
Leaf Source	Young, first-harvest leaves	Older, later-harvest leaves	Less likely to cause nausea due to lower tannin levels.
Flavor	Smooth, sweet, and rich in umami	Robust, more earthy, and often bitter	Higher bitterness from tannins can upset sensitive stomachs.
Texture	Ultra-fine, talc-like powder	Slightly coarser and less refined	Coarser powder may feel gritty or not blend as smoothly, contributing to a negative experience.
L-Theanine Content	Higher concentration due to extensive shade-growing	Lower concentration from less shading	Better balance with caffeine for a calmer energy boost, reducing jitters.
Tannin Content	Lower levels, less astringent	Higher levels, more astringent	Less irritating to the stomach lining, reducing the risk of nausea.
Caffeine	Often higher per gram due to younger leaves	Often lower per gram, but varies	The synergistic effect with L-theanine makes the caffeine less jarring.

How to Minimize Negative Effects

1. Reduce Portion Size: For new matcha drinkers or those with sensitivity, start with a smaller amount (e.g., half a teaspoon) and gradually increase it.
2. Never Drink on an Empty Stomach: Always pair your matcha with a light meal or snack to prevent the tannins from irritating your stomach lining.
3. Choose High-Quality Matcha: Invest in ceremonial-grade matcha from a trusted, organic, and certified Japanese source to ensure lower tannin levels and minimize the risk of contaminants.
4. Lower Water Temperature: Use hot, but not boiling, water (around 175°F or 80°C) to brew your matcha. Boiling water can burn the powder, releasing more bitterness and potential irritants.
5. Add Milk: Making a matcha latte with milk (dairy or non-dairy) can help neutralize some of the acidity and soothe the stomach.
6. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support smooth digestion and help your body flush out excess caffeine.
7. Monitor Your Body: Pay close attention to how your body responds and adjust your consumption accordingly. If symptoms persist, consider reducing or stopping intake.

Conclusion

While matcha is a celebrated superfood with many health benefits, it's not without potential downsides, especially when consumed incorrectly or in excess. The next time you find yourself wondering why am I not feeling well after taking matcha?, consider these factors. Addressing common issues like caffeine sensitivity, tannins, and product quality is crucial for a positive experience. By adopting mindful consumption practices, such as portion control, proper preparation, and choosing high-quality sources, you can enjoy matcha's calm, focused energy without the unpleasant side effects. If you have significant health concerns or are on medication, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating matcha into your routine. For more information on quality and sourcing, consider exploring resources from reputable tea vendors(https://matchaoutlet.com/blogs/articles/how-to-choose-the-best-quality-matcha-powder).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary cause of nausea after drinking matcha?

Nausea is most often caused by the tannins in matcha, which can irritate the stomach lining and increase stomach acid, especially when consumed on an empty stomach.

Does the caffeine in matcha cause anxiety?

While matcha contains caffeine, which can cause anxiety or jitters in sensitive individuals, it also contains L-theanine. This amino acid promotes a state of calm alertness, mitigating the intense side effects often associated with coffee.

How can I avoid stomach issues with matcha?

To avoid stomach issues, never drink matcha on an empty stomach. Always pair it with a light meal or snack, use a smaller portion of powder, and consider adding milk to your drink.

Is low-quality matcha more likely to make you feel sick?

Yes, lower-grade matcha often contains higher levels of bitter tannins that can irritate the stomach. It also has a greater risk of containing contaminants like heavy metals or pesticides.

Can matcha affect iron absorption?

The tannins in green tea can inhibit the absorption of non-heme iron from plant-based foods. To minimize this, drink matcha at least one hour before or after an iron-rich meal.

What should I do if I think I'm allergic to matcha?

While rare, a matcha allergy is possible. Symptoms include hives, swelling, or respiratory issues. Discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention if symptoms are severe. A doctor can help determine if it's an allergy or sensitivity.

Is there a limit to how much matcha I should drink daily?

For most healthy adults, 1-2 cups per day is considered safe. Those sensitive to caffeine or with certain health conditions may need to limit their intake to avoid adverse effects.