Does Green Tea Extract Raise Blood Pressure?

Green tea has long been touted for its numerous health benefits, from weight loss to cancer prevention. But can it also cause an increase in blood pressure?

Recent studies have suggested that green tea extract supplements may have a small, but statistically significant, effect on blood pressure. However, it’s important to note that this effect is not seen in individuals who consume green tea through traditional means, such as drinking the tea itself.

So what’s the difference between green tea extract and regular green tea? Green tea extract is a concentrated form of the tea, often containing higher levels of the active ingredient catechins. This is the compound believed to be responsible for the slight blood pressure increase seen in supplement form.

It’s also important to note that the increase in blood pressure seen in these studies is relatively small and not likely to cause any serious health issues. Additionally, the studies were conducted on a small group of people, and more research is needed to fully understand the potential effects of green tea extract on blood pressure.

Despite this, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you have a history of high blood pressure or other heart-related issues.

In conclusion, while green tea extract may have a small effect on blood pressure, it is not a significant concern for the majority of individuals. Drinking traditional green tea is still considered safe, and may even have some blood pressure-lowering benefits.

So go ahead, enjoy your cup of green tea and rest easy knowing that it’s a delicious and healthy choice!