Does Drinking Green Tea Make You Hungry?
No, drinking green tea does not make you hungry. In fact, scientific research shows that green tea may help suppress appetite, regulate hunger hormones, and support fat metabolism, which can reduce cravings and promote feelings of fullness.
That said, green tea affects everyone differently, and the context in which you drink it—such as on an empty stomach or with food—can influence how your body reacts.
In this article, we’ll explore what happens in your body when you drink green tea, why some people might feel hungry afterward, and how to make the most of green tea for appetite control.
Understanding How Green Tea Affects Appetite
Green tea contains two key compounds that influence appetite:
1. Catechins (especially EGCG)
These antioxidants help regulate metabolism, stimulate fat oxidation, and modulate appetite-related hormones.
- EGCG has been shown to lower ghrelin, the hormone responsible for hunger.
- A study published in the Journal of Nutrition showed that green tea extract significantly reduced food intake and increased satiety in participants. (PubMed Source)
2. Caffeine
Green tea contains 20–35 mg of caffeine per cup—enough to provide alertness without overstimulating. Caffeine is also known to suppress appetite by increasing adrenaline and slowing gastric emptying.
Why Do Some People Feel Hungry After Drinking Green Tea?
While green tea is generally associated with reduced hunger, here are a few reasons why you may feel hungrier after drinking it:
- You’re drinking it on an empty stomach: This can increase acid production, which mimics hunger.
- Your body is detoxing: As your metabolism speeds up, your body may signal the need for nutrients.
- You associate tea with meal times: Habitual pairings can trigger conditioned hunger responses.
To avoid these effects:
- Drink green tea between meals
- Pair it with a light snack if needed
- Avoid drinking it too early in the morning on an empty stomach
Does Green Tea Suppress Appetite?
Yes. Green tea is one of the most widely researched teas for natural appetite suppression. It helps in multiple ways:
- Reduces ghrelin (the hunger hormone)
- Improves blood sugar regulation
- Reduces stress-related cravings (especially if paired with L-theanine as in oolong tea)
If you're looking to use tea for this purpose, 11° Mt. Pumori Best Green Tea (Certified Organic) is an excellent option. It's grown at high altitudes and rich in naturally occurring catechins.
When Is the Best Time to Drink Green Tea for Appetite Control?
- Mid-morning or mid-afternoon: Helps reduce snacking and mindless eating
- 30 minutes before meals: May help reduce portion size by promoting fullness
- Avoid late evening: Caffeine can interfere with sleep, which is tied to increased hunger the next day
Related Read:
Want to learn more about natural appetite control through tea? Check out our full guide: Does Tea Suppress Appetite? A Deep Dive Into Natural Craving Control
FAQs
1. Does green tea make you feel more hungry?
No, it typically helps suppress hunger due to catechins and caffeine, unless consumed on an empty stomach.
2. Should I drink green tea before or after meals?
Drinking it before meals may help reduce appetite. However, listen to your body and adjust based on comfort.
3. Does green tea help reduce cravings?
Yes. Green tea stabilizes blood sugar and reduces ghrelin, making it easier to control cravings.
4. Why do I feel hungry after drinking tea?
You may be responding to habit, low blood sugar, or increased stomach acid. Try pairing it with a healthy snack.
5. Which green tea is best for appetite control?
A high-quality loose leaf like Mt. Pumori Organic Green Tea is ideal for consistent satiety support.
