Dr Ahmed, an A&E doctor known as the Gordon Ramsay of healthcare, has issued a warning to people born between 1981 and 2012 about the popular matcha tea trend. During a recent visit to the Arndale Centre in Manchester, he observed that "every single woman and a lot of men" were drinking matcha, raising concerns about its potential health risks.
Matcha's Popularity and Health Concerns
Matcha, a Japanese tea packed with antioxidants called catechins, has become a viral trend on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. However, Dr Ahmed warns that its high catechin content can block the absorption of non-heme iron—the type found in plant-based foods and supplements—by 60-90%. This is higher than standard green tea (around 60%) and nearly matches black tea (70-94%).
He explains: "The Gen Z's of TikTok, do you drink a lot of matcha? Are you all iron deficient? If so, shut up and listen." Citing that 57% to 65% of Gen Z and millennials consume matcha heavily, he highlights the risk of iron deficiency anaemia, which causes tiredness, breathlessness, dizziness, and a racing heart.
Who Is Affected and How to Prevent Iron Deficiency
Dr Ahmed clarifies that the iron absorption issue only applies to plant-based iron. "If you get your iron from red meat, poultry, or fish (heme iron), matcha and coffee have virtually zero effect on your absorption," he says. For vegetarians, vegans, or those managing low iron, he recommends waiting 60 to 90 minutes after eating before drinking matcha, or pairing meals with vitamin C to override the block.
He adds: "All is not lost. I don't want you to stop drinking your 35 cups of matcha a day, I just want you to space them out between what you eat."
Understanding Iron Deficiency Anaemia
According to the Mayo Clinic, iron deficiency anaemia occurs when the blood lacks enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to the body's tissues. Symptoms include extreme tiredness, weakness, pale skin, chest pain, fast heartbeat, shortness of breath, headache, dizziness, cold hands and feet, brittle nails, and restless legs syndrome. In severe cases, it can cause cravings for non-food items like ice, dirt, or clay.
Dr Ahmed's warning underscores the importance of mindful consumption of matcha, especially among those who rely on plant-based iron sources. By adjusting timing, matcha lovers can continue to enjoy the tea without compromising their iron levels.
