The Drink Idolized by Millennials and Gen Z Worldwide... Reports of "Dizziness" After Consumption

Matcha, which is gaining tremendous popularity among Millennials and Gen Z

Experts have issued warnings that excessive consumption may cause iron deficiency anemia.

According to the British media outlet Daily Mail, Lin Shajin, a 28-year-old nurse and lifestyle, fashion, and beauty influencer,

revealed on social media that she suffered from severe anemia due to her regular consumption of matcha beverages.

Shajin said, "I already had anemia, but about three months ago, I started experiencing increased fatigue and severe itching.

The only change in my daily routine was an increase in my matcha intake."

An influencer revealed that they are suffering from severe anemia due to matcha latte. TikTok, Pexels

After Shajin's case became known, more people have shared on social media that they also experienced unusual symptoms

after drinking matcha beverages.

In particular, many people who already had anemia reported that after increasing their matcha consumption,

they suffered from extreme fatigue and a drop in iron levels.

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Tannins in Matcha... May Inhibit Iron Absorption in the Body

As the popularity of matcha rises worldwide, sales of matcha-related beverages are also increasing in Korea. An employee is preparing a matcha drink at a matcha specialty store in Yongsan-gu, Seoul (left), and a notice about matcha-related beverages is displayed at a matcha specialty store in Myeongdong, Jung-gu, Seoul. /Photo by Yonhap News

Like green tea, matcha is derived from the Camellia sinensis plant,

and is known for various health benefits, including liver protection, heart health, and weight loss.

Matcha lattes have recently gained explosive popularity among Millennials & Gen Z, who prioritize health management,

leading to severe supply shortages in major producing countries such as Japan.

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Experts: "Excessive Matcha Consumption by People with Low Iron Levels May Lead to Iron Deficiency Anemia"

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The tannins in matcha can interfere with the body's absorption of iron.

Tannins are polyphenol compounds commonly found in nature, present in tea, wine, and nuts.

"Drinking too much matcha can cause iron deficiency anemia, and it can be especially risky for people who already have low iron levels or follow a plant-based diet."

"Like other green teas, matcha contains compounds called tannins and catechins, which inhibit the absorption of non-heme iron from plant-based foods," she explained. "The more frequently you consume matcha during or immediately after meals, the greater the likelihood that your body will absorb less iron."
(Dr. Sophie Dix of US-based online healthcare provider ZOE Health)

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Of Course... "No Problem If Consumed in Moderation"

A matcha beverage information sign is placed at a matcha specialty store in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. Photo by Yonhap News

A matcha beverage guide is placed at a matcha specialty store in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. Photo by Yonhap News Agency Pixabay

"For this kind of problem to occur, you would need to drink several cups of highly concentrated matcha every day on a regular basis."
"It is best to take iron supplements at least 1 to 2 hours before drinking matcha, and taking vitamin C together can help the body absorb iron."
"Moderation is important, and for people with a balanced diet, drinking one or two cups a day is unlikely to cause any major issues."
(Dr. Dix)

"Most foods can have adverse effects when consumed excessively, and matcha is no exception."

"Excessive consumption of beverages high in caffeine can lead to appetite suppression."

"Replacing nutrient- and iron-rich foods with caffeinated drinks and reducing overall food intake can lead to anemia."

"It is not surprising that some people experience nutritional deficiencies when excessive caffeine intake (matcha) is combined with an unbalanced or restrictive diet."