When Should You Drink Green Tea?

Green tea is a popular tea in Türkiye and is known for its antioxidant content. It can be added to a daily routine, with timing and amount adjusted to personal preference. This guide covers its characteristics, when and how much to drink, and how to prepare it.

What is green tea like?

Brewed green tea is light in color with a mildly grassy aroma. Its flavor changes with the amount of leaves and the water temperature. Its vitamin C content is said to help you start the day feeling energetic. Bitter orange, with its tart flavor, can be used in drinks and marmalade. Freshly brewed green tea has a pronounced aroma, while its flavor may change if it sits for a long time. Because green tea leaves are less processed than black tea, green tea has a lighter, more herbal flavor and can suit different times of day.

When should you drink it?

Experts generally recommend drinking green tea about 20 minutes after a meal. Drinking it with a meal or immediately afterward is not preferred because it may affect the absorption of some nutrients. Adjust the amount you prepare during the day to your cup size and personal preference. Green tea is generally preferred during the day rather than late at night because its caffeine may affect sleep. Preferences about drinking it on an empty stomach vary.

Steeping and flavor

The longer green tea steeps, the more bitter it can taste. Strain it after steeping. People with sensitive stomachs may feel discomfort when drinking it on an empty stomach, so drinking it after eating is generally preferred. Green tea can be served hot in the morning or afternoon.

Serving green tea

Green tea can be served hot or warm. A warm serving may change how its aroma and drinking temperature are perceived. A slice of ginger adds a spicy note.

How to brew green tea

Do not brew green tea with boiling water. Let the water cool slightly after it boils before pouring it over the leaves. Water that is too hot can make the tea taste bitter and may damage some of its compounds. A shorter steep keeps the flavor lighter. Leaf quality also affects the brew; loose-leaf tea generally has a richer aroma than tea bags. When pouring, strain the tea and remove the leaves from the pot. Leaves left in the water for too long can make the tea increasingly bitter. Drink freshly brewed tea rather than letting it sit in the cup to help preserve its flavor and temperature.