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Is matcha green tea safe while breastfeeding?

Is Matcha Green Tea Safe While Breastfeeding?
As more mothers seek healthier beverage options during breastfeeding, matcha green tea has emerged as a popular choice. This finely ground green tea, known for its vibrant color and rich flavor, is often praised for its health benefits. However, the question remains: is it safe to consume while nursing?
Caffeine Content and Its Effects
Matcha does contain caffeine, and this is a primary concern for breastfeeding mothers. A typical serving of matcha can have about 280 mg of caffeine, which is significantly higher than that found in regular green tea. While moderate caffeine consumption is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, it is crucial to monitor intake. The recommended limit for breastfeeding mothers is around 400 mg of caffeine per day. This means that while one cup of matcha can fit within this guideline, excessive consumption could lead to potential issues.
Babies can be sensitive to caffeine, and exposure through breast milk may lead to increased irritability or sleep disturbances. Therefore, moderation is key. Experts suggest that limiting matcha to one cup per day can help mitigate these risks while still allowing mothers to enjoy its benefits.
Health Benefits of Matcha
Beyond its caffeine content, matcha is rich in antioxidants and nutrients, which can be beneficial for both mothers and their babies. The antioxidants found in matcha, particularly catechins, are known for their health-promoting properties, including anti-inflammatory effects and potential immune support. This makes matcha not only a flavorful choice but also a nutritious one.
General Consensus on Safety
The consensus among health professionals is that matcha is safe for breastfeeding mothers when consumed in moderation. Various sources confirm that green teas, including matcha, are generally safe to drink while nursing. However, mothers should be mindful of their overall caffeine intake from all sources, including coffee, chocolate, and other caffeinated beverages.
In conclusion, matcha green tea can be a delightful and healthful addition to a breastfeeding mother’s diet, provided it is consumed judiciously. By keeping caffeine intake within recommended limits, mothers can enjoy the unique flavors and health benefits of matcha without compromising their baby’s well-being.

What greens should you avoid while breastfeeding?

Common culprits include beans, broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts. Bloating, burping, and passing gas are normal. But if your baby is gassy or has colic, avoid these foods for a few weeks to see whether they relieve the symptoms.

Who should not drink matcha?

People who are sensitive to caffeine may also want to pass on matcha because it could cause anxiety and disrupt sleep. In general, Dr. Hu said, matcha can be a healthy addition to your diet, as long as you’re mindful of how much sugar and other unhealthful ingredients you’re consuming along with it.

Can I drink matcha green tea while breastfeeding?

Matcha for breastfeeding
While it’s important for breastfeeding moms to stay within a healthy caffeine limit while breastfeeding (300 mg per day), drinking matcha is a clean, healthy way to boost energy postpartum.

Does green tea affect breast milk supply?

Top 5 food / drinks to avoid if you have a low milk supply:
Caffeine – coffee, black tea, green tea, etc. Excess Vitamin C & Vitamin B –supplements or drinks with excessive vitamin C Or B (Vitamin Water, Powerade, oranges/orange juice and citrus fruits/juice.)

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 decreases milk supply?

Other things that can also lead you to have low milk production include:

  • Smoking or drinking.
  • Some medicines and herbs.
  • Hormonal forms of birth control. This is especially true for birth control that has estrogen.
  • Nursing or pumping less often.
  • Getting sick.
  • Feeling stressed.
  • Getting pregnant again.

What teas should you avoid while 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.

Who should not drink matcha green tea?

High blood pressure: Green tea has raised blood pressure. 1 If your blood pressure is high over long periods, this may increase your risk of other health problems, such as heart attacks and stroke. Liver problems: In large amounts, green tea (800 mg of EGCG or higher) may also raise your risk of liver problems.

Is matcha good for the breast?

Studies also show that matcha green tea inhibits the propagation of breast cancer stem cells and mediates the messed up metabolic program of cancer cells.

What teas are best for breast health?

In conclusion, our study suggests drinking at least 5 cups of green or black tea per week may be associated with decreased breast cancer risk.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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