Is theanine safe while breastfeeding?

The Safety of Theanine While Breastfeeding
As more mothers seek natural supplements to manage stress and anxiety during the demanding period of breastfeeding, the question of whether L-theanine is safe for nursing mothers has gained attention. L-theanine, an amino acid primarily found in green tea, is known for its calming effects without causing sedation. However, the safety of its use during breastfeeding remains a topic of debate among healthcare professionals and researchers.
Current Research and Opinions
The consensus among experts is that there is insufficient research specifically addressing the safety of L-theanine for breastfeeding mothers. According to a response from a healthcare professional, while L-theanine is generally considered safe for most adults, there is a lack of concrete data regarding its effects on breastfed infants. This uncertainty leads some doctors to recommend caution, suggesting that it might be safer to avoid the supplement altogether during breastfeeding.
In discussions on forums like InfantRisk, mothers have expressed their concerns about taking L-theanine while nursing. Some report using it to alleviate anxiety and improve sleep quality, but they also highlight the absence of definitive studies to support its safety for infants. This sentiment is echoed in various online communities where mothers share their experiences and seek advice on supplement use during breastfeeding.
Potential Benefits and Risks
L-theanine is praised for its ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress without the sedative effects associated with other calming agents. It has been studied for its potential benefits in managing anxiety, improving focus, and enhancing sleep quality. However, the lack of specific studies on its impact on breastfeeding infants raises concerns about possible side effects that could affect a nursing child.
While some mothers report positive experiences with L-theanine, the absence of rigorous clinical trials means that potential risks cannot be fully assessed. The general recommendation from health professionals is to prioritize caution and consult with a healthcare provider before introducing any new supplement during breastfeeding.
Conclusion
In summary, while L-theanine may offer benefits for anxiety and stress relief, its safety during breastfeeding is not well-established. The prevailing advice is to approach its use with caution, given the lack of research and the potential for unknown effects on nursing infants. Mothers considering L-theanine should consult their healthcare providers to weigh the benefits against the risks, ensuring the health and safety of both themselves and their babies.

Is L-theanine ok to take while breastfeeding?

Theanine supplements are usually well tolerated and no adverse effects have been reported thus far. However, pregnant and nursing mothers should avoid using the supplement.

Who should not take theanine?

The side effects of L-theanine are usually mild and uncommon. People who are pregnant or breastfeeding should be cautious when taking L-theanine, due to the limited research available for these groups.

Why no ashwagandha while breastfeeding?

Although it is rare, there have been a number of cases that link liver injury to ashwagandha supplements. Ashwagandha should be avoided during pregnancy and should not be used while breastfeeding.

What not to take while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.

What can I take for anxiety while breastfeeding?

Safe medication in breastfeeding
They include, in no particular order: SSRI antidepressants e.g. sertraline, citalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine all have anti- anxiety activity. They take 4 to 6 weeks to exert full benefit. Tri-cyclic antidepressants e.g. amitriptyline, imipramine.

Why do I feel weird after taking L-theanine?

L-theanine may affect the levels of certain chemicals in the brain. These include serotonin and dopamine, which influence mood, sleep, and emotion, and cortisol, which helps the body deal with stress. A change in the balance of these chemicals can change a person’s mood or stress levels.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

Is L-theanine safe for sleep during pregnancy?

Pregnancy: Due to limited research on its safety, pregnant or breastfeeding people should avoid L-theanine. 2 Additionally, natural tea sources of L-theanine often contain caffeine, which should be limited to less than 200 mg daily during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

What supplements should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Dietary Supplements and Herbs to Avoid When Breastfeeding

• Answer: Certain herbals, high dose vitamins, and other dietary supplements can be dangerous to breastfed babies through breast milk.
• Aloe latex.
• Ashwagandha.
• Berberine/goldenseal.
• Bilberry.
• Black cohosh.
• Butterbur.
• Dong quai.

Can you take L-theanine while pregnant?

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if theanine is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use. Children: L-theanine is possibly safe when taken by mouth, short-term.