Is It Okay to Drink Tea During Pregnancy?

tea during pregnancy

By E.Baloyo , Parent Herald Mar 29, 09:20 am

Photo: (Photo : PUNIT PARANJPE/AFP via Getty Images)

Tea during pregnancy is often the most asked question by women during their journey.

Tea has been around for hundreds of years, and in some cultures, drinking tea has been deeply rooted in their health and nutrition regimen.

In countries where drinking tea is more common, people drink more than 1 cup a day. People who are trying to quit sugary food or want a caffeine drink often resort to drinking tea as a substitute.

Rich in polyphenols safeguarding the heart, antioxidants potentially reducing cancer risks, and immune-boosting nutrients, tea holds remarkable therapeutic properties.

However, amid the array of safe teas for expectant mothers, caution is warranted, as certain varieties pose risks and should be abstained from.

Is It Okay To Drink Tea During Pregnancy?

Yes, drinking tea during pregnancy is generally safe, provided certain precautions are taken. It's crucial to note that teas like black, green, and white varieties contain caffeine, and excessive consumption should be avoided.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant individuals limit their daily caffeine intake to under 200 milligrams.

A cup of black tea typically contains nearly 50 milligrams of caffeine, while green tea contains around 25 milligrams.

While herbal teas are often associated with health benefits, they may not always be safe during pregnancy.

Therefore, it's advisable to calculate the caffeine content of any tea and consult with a healthcare professional before consumption, especially herbal teas.

What Teas Are Safe to Drink During Pregnancy?

Ginger Tea

Widely recognized for its ability to alleviate morning sickness, ginger tea is a go-to remedy for many pregnant women. Studies have shown its effectiveness in easing nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.

However, it's essential to approach ginger tea with caution, as some research suggests it may have an impact on fetal sex hormones and could potentially increase the risk of vaginal bleeding.

It's advisable to have a discussion with a healthcare provider before incorporating ginger tea into your pregnancy routine to weigh its benefits against potential risks.

Peppermint Tea

Peppermint tea is often sought after for its soothing properties, particularly for calming an upset stomach. While generally considered safe during pregnancy, it's important to note that peppermint tea may not be as effective in managing morning sickness.

Some studies have indicated that peppermint oil aromatherapy, for example, doesn't significantly improve nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy compared to a placebo. Additionally, pregnant women should be mindful of potential side effects such as aggravating heartburn, a common issue experienced during pregnancy.

Green Tea

Green teas, including trendy varieties like matcha, are deemed safe for consumption during pregnancy. Compared to coffee, green tea contains significantly lower levels of caffeine, making it a preferred choice for many expectant mothers.

However, it's advisable to limit intake to less than three cups per day to avoid excessive caffeine consumption, which can interfere with the absorption of essential nutrients like folic acid. Adequate folic acid intake is crucial during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects in the developing baby.

Black or White Teas

Similarly safe, these teas should be enjoyed in moderation to avoid exceeding the recommended caffeine intake, especially as iced tea, a common source of caffeine for some pregnant women.

Herbal Teas To Avoid During Pregnancy?

Herbal teas, distinct from traditional teas derived from the tea plant, encompass a variety of beverages crafted from different plant components like roots, berries, flowers, seeds, and leaves.

Some herbal teas have been associated with potential risks such as gastrointestinal discomfort, heightened menstrual bleeding, miscarriage, congenital abnormalities, or premature labor. Expectant mothers may find it beneficial to steer clear of herbal teas that haven't yet been established as safe for pregnancy.

Examples of herbal teas to avoid during pregnancy or while breastfeeding include:

Alfalfa
Black cohosh
Blue cohosh
Comfrey
Dong quai
Ephedra (known as ma huang in traditional Chinese medicine, banned in the U.S. since 2004)
European mistletoe
Goldenseal
Hibiscus
Horehound
Kava
Labrador
Lemongrass
Licorice root
Mugwort
Nettle leaf (also referred to as stinging nettle leaf)
Passion flower
Pennyroyal
Rosemary
Sage
Sassafras
Saw palmetto
Vetiver
Yarrow
Yerba mate