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What teas are unsafe for breastfeeding?

Understanding Unsafe TeTeas to Avoid While Breastfeeding
Certain teas can be unsafe for breastfeeding mothers and their babies. According to the available research, here are some teas that should be avoided or consumed with caution while breastfeeding:
Caffeinated Teas: Teas that contain caffeine, such as black, green, and oolong teas, should be limited as caffeine can pass through breast milk and affect the baby. Excessive caffeine intake can make the baby irritable and disrupt their sleep.
Herbal Teas: Many herbal teas contain ingredients that may be unsafe for breastfeeding. These include teas with lemongrass, oregano, parsley, peppermint, ginseng, kava, and illicium verum (star anise). These herbs can potentially affect milk supply or have other adverse effects on the nursing baby.
Teas with Unregulated Ingredients: Herbal teas are not regulated by the FDA, so their purity, safety, and strength are not guaranteed. Breastfeeding mothers should exercise caution when consuming any herbal teas and consult their healthcare provider first.
Fish-Based Teas: Teas that contain fish-based ingredients, such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel, or tuna, should be avoided due to the risk of mercury exposure for the nursing baby.
Moderation is Key: While some herbal teas, such as chamomile and echinacea, may be safe in moderation, breastfeeding mothers should always check with their healthcare provider before consuming any tea.
In summary, breastfeeding mothers should be cautious about the teas they consume and avoid those that contain caffeine, certain herbs, or unregulated ingredients to ensure the health and safety of their nursing babies.

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

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 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.

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.

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.

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 to avoid when drying up breast milk?

Try not to touch or massage your breasts. If you are very uncomfortable, you can gently massage your breasts for a few minutes to let some milk out, but only until your breasts soften. Do not pump or empty your breasts completely.

What teas dry up breast milk?

Use herbs.
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.

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.

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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