Overview
- Recent coverage highlights two U.S. women who were hospitalized and received blood transfusions after reportedly drinking two to three cups of matcha daily.
- Influencer posts have proliferated with claims of acute iron-deficiency symptoms linked to matcha, driving widespread attention on social media.
- Nutrition reporting explains that catechins and tannins, and reportedly higher oxalic acid levels in matcha, can inhibit absorption of non‑heme iron.
- Health guidance flags higher‑risk groups such as people with heavy menstrual bleeding and those on vegan or vegetarian diets.
- Practical advice includes limiting intake to about one or two cups a day, drinking tea one to two hours away from iron‑rich meals, pairing plant iron with vitamin C, and using supplements only after medical assessment.