Are there any teas to avoid while breastfeeding?

Understanding Teas to Avoid While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a critical period for both mothers and their infants, and dietary choices can significantly impact the health and well-being of both. While many teas can be beneficial, certain varieties should be approached with caution or avoided altogether.
Teas to Avoid
1. Caffeinated Teas: Teas that contain caffeine, such as black tea and green tea, can affect a breastfeeding infant. Caffeine can pass into breast milk, and studies suggest that babies may become more irritable or have trouble sleeping if exposed to caffeine. Therefore, it is advisable for breastfeeding mothers to limit their intake of caffeinated teas.
2. Herbal Teas: Some herbal teas can pose risks due to their active ingredients. For instance, teas containing ginseng and kava are known to have sedative effects and may not be safe for breastfeeding mothers. Additionally, peppermint tea can potentially reduce milk supply, making it another tea to avoid during this sensitive time.
3. Certain Herbal Ingredients: Other herbs like lemongrass, oregano, and parsley are also recommended to be avoided. These herbs can have varying effects on milk production and may lead to allergic reactions in some infants.
4. Uncertain Safety: Some teas may not have enough research backing their safety during breastfeeding. For example, while echinacea is often considered safe, it is still wise to consult with a healthcare provider before consuming it. The lack of definitive studies on many herbal teas means that caution is warranted.
Why Caution is Necessary
The primary concern with consuming certain teas while breastfeeding revolves around the potential transfer of compounds through breast milk. Infants have immature liver and kidney functions, making them more susceptible to the effects of various substances. Therefore, what might be harmless for an adult could pose risks for a nursing baby.
Conclusion
In summary, while tea can be a soothing beverage for breastfeeding mothers, it is essential to be selective about the types consumed. Caffeinated teas and certain herbal varieties should generally be avoided to ensure the health and comfort of both mother and child. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially when considering herbal teas that may not have extensive safety data. By making informed choices, mothers can enjoy their tea while safeguarding their baby’s health.

Why avoid cinnamon while breastfeeding?

Coumarin, an ingredient in some cinnamon products, can cause liver problems, but the amount you’d get is so small that it probably won’t be a problem. Given the lack of evidence about its safety, children, pregnant women, and women who are breastfeeding should avoid cinnamon as a treatment.

Is chamomile tea ok when breastfeeding?

Yes, you can drink chamomile tea while breastfeeding. Chamomile tea is a herbal infusion that’s often used for its calming properties and ability to soothe an upset stomach. The American Pregnancy Association 1 states that chamomile is generally safe while breastfeeding when consumed in moderation.

What herb dries up milk?

Consume herbs and teas

• Sage: Many anecdotal sources recommend using sage teas to reduce or eliminate breast milk supply.
• Jasmine: Jasmine may lower levels of prolactin, a hormone that helps produce breast milk.
• Peppermint oil: Peppermint oil may reduce milk supply when a person applies it directly to the breasts.

Why avoid strawberries while breastfeeding?

A quart or more of orange juice or a diet heavy in seasonal fruits such as strawberries, melons or cherries have been associated with diarrhea and colicky symptoms in some infants. Foods containing many preservatives, additives or dyes have been associated with signs of discomfort in some babies.

Are there any herbs to avoid while breastfeeding?

Herbs to avoid while breastfeeding

• Periwinkle Herb (Vinca minor)
• Sage (Salvia officinalis)
• Sorrel (Rumex acetosa)
• Spearmint
• Thyme
• Yarrow

What drinks to avoid when breastfeeding?

Foods and drinks to avoid while breastfeeding
Caffeine passes into breastmilk, so large amounts of tea, coffee and cola drinks are best avoided. Drinking small amounts of drinks with caffeine (3 or less drinks a day) should not be a problem. Alcohol also passes into breastmilk and can affect your baby.

What drinks dry up breast milk?

Tips for Drying Up Your Breast Milk

• Drink one mug of sage or peppermint tea 3 or 4 times per day, for 2 to 3 days.
• Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can help dry up your milk, but ask your doctor before using this medicine, and do not take it if you have kidney or thyroid problems, or if you have glaucoma.

What herbal teas decrease milk supply?

Mint teas, and related herbs like lemon balm, can reduce breastmilk production so they aren’t recommended when you are your baby’s sole source of nutrition. Even then, one cup every now and then wouldn’t likely affect supply, it’s more of an issue when drinking multiple cups day after day.

What teas are unsafe for breastfeeding?

Some types of tea can affect breastmilk production and cause side effects in the baby. Teas that should be avoided include lemongrass, oregano, parsley, peppermint, ginseng, kava andillicium verum. They should be avoided whenever possible, or consumed only under the supervision of a doctor.

Is peppermint tea safe while breastfeeding?

Studies have shown it doesn’t harm you or your baby. You should avoid very large amounts of peppermint tea.