The stress hormone cortisol suppresses the immune system and boosts blood sugar. It kick-starts the body’s fight or flight response. While some cortisol is necessary for good health, excess cortisol can lead to weight gain, blood sugar and pressure concerns, a weak immune system and mental health problems.
Caffeine can raise cortisol levels. Energy drinks can raise cortisol by 30 percent. While coffee has many health benefits, as it often has more caffeine than an energy drink, it can raise cortisol by 50 percent.
Many people think all teas are the same. But black tea has much more caffeine than green tea and can raise cortisol by 20 percent. On the other hand, green tea contains an antioxidant that interrupts chemicals in the body that make cortisol. In a study, people who drank green tea every day for six weeks had improved mental health and lower levels of cortisol. A study also found that ginseng tea supplements lowered cortisol by 16 percent. The study looked at supplements, not the drink. A supplement is a higher dose than a beverage. But it’s good to know that ginseng isn’t related to higher levels of cortisol.
The way you make green tea matters as well. If you over-steep your tea or use water that is too hot, it can become bitter. For best results, boil the water, let the water cool off for a couple of minutes so it’s between 175 and 185 degrees and then brew your tea for two to three minutes.
Drinking too much green tea, especially on an empty stomach, can cause digestive issues, headaches and sleep problems. Excessive amounts of green tea for an extended period could cause liver problems. And green tea can interact with iron supplements and some medications, including blood thinners. As with all things, it’s important to drink green tea in moderation and speak to your doctor if you have concerns.
If you don’t like green tea but you have been struggling with stress, black tea is a good option. It contains “L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes calmness and helps counteract caffeine’s jittery effects,” Dr. Supatra Tovar explained. Dr. Tovar is a clinical psychologist and registered dietitian. It may not be as soothing as green tea, but it’s a significant step up from coffee, and we’re always looking for steps toward better health!
