Matcha tea on an empty stomach: benefits and contraindications

Some people start the day with coffee without thinking too much about it. Others prefer something gentler that doesn't leave their stomach a little upset by mid-morning. And in the middle of that debate comes matcha tea, the green powder that in recent years has revolutionised breakfasts, cafés and wellness routines.

But one question comes up quite a lot: is it a good idea to have matcha tea on an empty stomach?

Maybe you've wondered about it too. You may have heard that it helps wake the body up in the morning, that it boosts concentration or even that it helps with losing weight. And it's true, matchalover's word!

However, there are also people who prefer to avoid it on an empty stomach because it doesn't quite agree with them, or who prefer to have it alongside a light breakfast.

The reality, as tends to happen with almost everything to do with food, lies somewhere in between. Matcha has fascinating properties, but in the end every body is different.

Let's take a calm look at it so you're clear on what can happen when you have it on an empty stomach, what benefits it has and when it's better not to.

What happens if I have matcha tea on an empty stomach?

When you have matcha on an empty stomach, your body absorbs its compounds quite a bit faster. This happens because the digestive system isn't yet busy processing food, so the active substances pass into the body more easily.

Among those substances, three mainly stand out:

• Caffeine

• L-theanine

• Catechins (antioxidants)

The combination of these three is what gives matcha its particular effect. It doesn't cause the abrupt energy spike typical of some coffees, but it does stimulate the nervous system gradually.

If you have it as soon as you get up, you may notice a greater sense of alertness, much more stable concentration and a stimulated metabolism.

That said, not everyone tolerates it the same way. When the stomach is empty, some people may feel digestive discomfort. It isn't common, but it happens.

If your stomach is delicate in the morning, it's best to make your matcha after putting something in your stomach.

What is matcha tea on an empty stomach good for?

Many people include matcha in their morning routine for the effects it can have on body and mind. It isn't a miracle drink, but it does have some interesting properties when consumed fairly regularly.

1. It can help you start the day with more mental clarity
2. It provides antioxidants from first thing
3. It can support the metabolism
4. It can improve your sense of energy without causing an abrupt crash
   

How to have matcha tea on an empty stomach without it disagreeing with you

If you want to try matcha in the morning, there are a few small recommendations that can help you avoid digestive discomfort.

They aren't strict rules, but they are habits that many people find useful.

Start with a small amount

If you've never had matcha, it's best to start with half a teaspoon. It's enough to notice its effects and will let you see how your body reacts.

If you tolerate it well, you can gradually increase the amount.

Avoid making it too concentrated

A highly recommended option for getting started in the world of matcha tea is to begin with matchas that aren't 100% concentration.

At Matchaflix we have perfect flavoured matchas so you can try them and see how your body reacts. Give them a go!

Don't have it on a completely empty stomach if you're sensitive

If coffee on an empty stomach has ever disagreed with you, you might want to have your matcha with something light:

• A yoghurt

• A slice of toast

• A little oatmeal

You don't need a full breakfast, since something light can make a big difference.

Pay attention to how you feel

This is the most important thing.

Everyone responds differently to caffeine. If you notice digestive discomfort or any uncomfortable symptom, it's best to adjust the amount or change the time of day you have it.

Contraindications of matcha tea on an empty stomach

Although matcha is safe for most people when consumed in moderation, there are situations where it's worth being more careful.

It's not about getting alarmed, but about knowing certain cases where it might not be the best option.

Sensitive stomach or gastritis

Matcha contains caffeine and certain compounds that can stimulate the production of gastric acid.

If you have gastritis, reflux or tend to get heartburn easily, having it on an empty stomach could intensify that discomfort.

In that case, it's better to have it after eating.

Caffeine sensitivity

Although it has less caffeine than coffee, matcha isn't free of it. If you're particularly sensitive, you might experience:

• Jitteriness

• Palpitations

• Difficulty sleeping (if you have it late)

The solution is usually simple: reduce the amount or limit it to the morning.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, it's recommended to moderate caffeine intake.

A small amount of matcha occasionally usually isn't a problem, but it's best to consult a healthcare professional to determine the right amount.

Interaction with some medications

The compounds in green tea can interact with certain drugs, especially those related to blood clotting or some cardiovascular treatments.

It isn't common, but if you take medication regularly, it's worth mentioning it to your doctor.

So… is it worth having matcha on an empty stomach?

For many people, matcha in the morning has become the best way to start the day. It can give a gentle boost, support concentration and add antioxidants to the diet. The best way to kick off the day with the good kind of energy!

However, it isn't essential and doesn't work the same for everyone.

If you tolerate it well on an empty stomach, you can incorporate it without any problem within a balanced diet. If it causes you discomfort, simply have it after breakfast.

If you still don't know where to start, we recommend taking a look at our matcha online shop and seeing all the products we offer. You'll love it!