What teas are bad for breastfeeding?

Understanding Teas to Avoid While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a crucial time for both mother and baby, and dietary choices can significantly impact the health and well-being of both. While many mothers enjoy herbal teas for their soothing properties, not all teas are safe during this period. Here’s a closer look at which teas to avoid and why.
Caffeine-Containing Teas
One of the primary concerns with certain teas is their caffeine content. Teas such as black tea and green tea contain caffeine, which can pass into breast milk. Research indicates that babies exposed to caffeine through breast milk may experience increased irritability and sleep disturbances. Therefore, it is advisable for breastfeeding mothers to limit their intake of caffeinated teas to ensure their babies remain calm and well-rested.
Herbal Teas to Avoid
While many herbal teas are considered safe, some can pose risks to breastfeeding mothers and their infants. Certain herbs can affect milk supply or have adverse effects on the baby. For instance, teas containing herbs like sage, peppermint, and parsley should be approached with caution. These herbs have been known to potentially decrease milk production, which can be detrimental during breastfeeding.
Additionally, some herbal teas may contain ingredients that are not well-studied in terms of their effects on breastfeeding. For example, herbs like fenugreek and ginseng can have varying effects on milk supply and may not be suitable for all mothers. It’s essential for nursing mothers to consult with healthcare providers before consuming herbal teas that contain these ingredients.
Specific Teas to Avoid
Certain specific teas are often highlighted as potentially harmful during breastfeeding. Teas made from licorice root, for example, can lead to increased blood pressure and other health issues. Similarly, chamomile tea, while generally safe in moderation, can cause allergic reactions in some infants.
Moreover, echinacea, often used to boost the immune system, is another herb that should be discussed with a healthcare provider before consumption. Its effects on breastfeeding are not fully understood, and caution is advised.
Conclusion
In summary, while tea can be a comforting beverage for breastfeeding mothers, it is crucial to be selective about which types are consumed. Caffeinated teas should be limited to prevent irritability in babies, and certain herbal teas should be avoided altogether due to their potential effects on milk supply and infant health. Always consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that your choices support both your health and that of your baby during this important time.

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.

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 kind of tea dries up breast milk?

To help dry up your milk supply: 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 herbs are not safe while breastfeeding?

Herbs to avoid while breastfeeding

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

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.

Does peppermint tea affect breastfeeding?

Peppermint and spearmint can adversely affect milk supply. Drinking an occasional cup of peppermint tea should not be a problem. You’d have to drink very large amounts daily (think quarts!) to decrease your supply. Altoids and other candies made from peppermint oil are a different story.

What drinks dry up breast milk?

To utilize herbs for lactation suppression:

• Drink sage tea made with 1 to 3 grams of dried sage leaves.
• Appy jasmine flowers to your breasts.
• Take chaste berry orally.
• Eat parsley.
• Use peppermint oil topically only if you’ve completely stopped breastfeeding — it can be toxic to your baby.

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.

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.

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.