We all want simple ways to improve our health, and what’s easier than drinking a cup of tea? Green tea, in particular, has been marketed as a miracle cure, with products based on plants and other active ingredients being sold as health products. It is touted as having the ability to prevent cancer, heart and metabolic disorders, and having anti-inflammatory properties, among other things. As of today, green tea is the second-most consumed beverage in the world, and its popularity for weight loss has been on the rise in both Israel and abroad.
However, evidence has been accumulating about the potential risks of increased green tea consumption. A recent study conducted by Israel’s Clalit Health Service and Kaplan Medical Center, published in the international peer-reviewed academic journal GastroHep, shows that these products could damage the liver, causing inflammation of the liver and even liver failure. The study was conducted by Prof. Steven Melnick, a gastroenterology and internal medicine specialist at Kaplan.
According to the study, there are over 100 documented cases of liver inflammation due to drinking green tea. This inflammation is the result of botanical toxins in the tea plant and is most likely the result of a metabolic reaction. Drinking more green tea has led to liver failure, especially in women. Although it is not clear which components cause liver damage, evidence has shown that for some people, combining green tea with other drugs and herbs can lead to severe liver disease.
Steven Melnick emphasized that liver inflammation and failure due to green tea drinking is rare, but people who consume these products should be aware of the possibility of complications and consult their family doctor if suspicious symptoms appear. He mentioned a case where a 23-year-old patient drank 2-3 cups of green tea every day and required a liver transplant within a month.
It is important to note that green tea is not the only natural product that can cause unexpected side effects. During a national conference of gastrology experts held in the US, data on five new cases of liver disease that only occurred after consuming supplements with turmeric were presented. In May 2021, the US National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases presented data on over a dozen similar cases.
Other cases were presented of liver damage caused by other nutritional supplements, such as Ashwagandha and herbal tea with Rhubarb, Chinese scutella, and jasmine gardenia. Therefore, while we tend to believe that anything natural is healthy and safe, it is important to be aware of potential risks and consult with a healthcare professional.
Black coffee is popular for several reasons. For one, it’s a simple and easy way to enjoy the taste and aroma of coffee without any added ingredients. Additionally, black coffee is low in calories and can provide health benefits such as antioxidants and improved mental focus. Many people also enjoy the bitter and strong taste of black coffee and appreciate the cultural significance and history behind this beloved beverage. Overall, black coffee’s popularity can be attributed to its simplicity, taste, and health benefits.
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