Of late, green tea has gained a lot of recognition for its various health benefits. Considered a healthier alternative to caffeine – and sugar-laden tea, green tea helps boost immunity, ease digestion and promote weight loss. But just like other foods like fruits and carb-rich meals, green tea offers its best benefits when consumed at the right time. This might come as a surprise to you that having green tea at the wrong time can negate all its offerings. Are you making the mistake of having your cup of green tea at a time when you can’t reap its full benefits?  

According to dietitian Akansha, it’s important to have your herbal at the right time and definitely not during certain times of the day. 

Here’re 3 Times When You Should Not Have Green Tea: 

1. Empty Stomach  

Do you start your day with green tea instead of regular tea thinking this is a healthier option? Well, it’s not. When you drink green tea on an empty stomach, it may lead to dehydration and stimulate the release of gastric acid which can cause stomach upset or even ulcers. 

2. Right After Meals 

We all assume having a cup of green tea after meals will help us digest the food eaten. But since the proteins of your foods are yet to be digested by the body, drinking green tea right after the meal can harm this process. 

3. Late Night  

There are many of us who retire to bed with a warm cup of green tea in our hands. If you also do it, you should know that this routine can interfere with your sleep pattern and in turn, increase your stress levels. We definitely want a peaceful sleep! 

(Also Read: How to Make a Perfect and Flavourful Cup of Green Tea)

Green tea is loaded with nutrients. 
Photo Credit: iStock

So, what’s the right time to have green tea? 

Dietitian Akansha says, “It is always best to drink green tea between meals. But remember to have it at least two hours before and two hours after your meal.” 

Consultant nutritionist Rupali Dutta shares with us, “The best time in the day to have green tea is morning, but after your breakfast, and that too after some gap. Also, limit the consumption to 2-3 cups a day.” 

Green tea posits a lot of advantages for good health, but only if had at the right time.  

About Neha GroverLove for reading roused her writing instincts. Neha is guilty of having a deep-set fixation with anything caffeinated. When she is not pouring out her nest of thoughts onto the screen, you can see her reading while sipping on coffee.