What teas should breastfeeding moms avoid?

Teas to Avoid While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a crucial time for both mothers and their infants, and what a mother consumes can significantly impact her milk supply and the health of her baby. While many teas can be beneficial, certain types should be approached with caution or avoided altogether.
Caffeine Content in Teas
One of the primary concerns for breastfeeding mothers is caffeine. Caffeine can pass into breast milk, and while moderate consumption is generally considered safe, excessive intake can lead to irritability and sleep disturbances in infants. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that breastfeeding mothers limit their caffeine intake to about 300 mg per day, which is roughly equivalent to three cups of brewed tea. Therefore, teas high in caffeine, such as black tea and certain green teas, should be consumed in moderation.
Herbal Teas: A Cautionary Approach
Herbal teas can be a soothing alternative, but not all are safe for breastfeeding mothers. Some herbs can affect milk supply or may not be safe for infants. For instance, sage and peppermint are often cited as herbs that could potentially reduce milk supply, although individual responses can vary. It’s advisable for mothers to monitor their milk production and consult with healthcare providers about specific herbal teas.
Certain herbal ingredients can also pose risks. For example, teas containing licorice root may lead to elevated blood pressure and should be avoided. Additionally, chamomile and echinacea are herbs that some mothers might consider, but it’s best to discuss these with a healthcare provider before consumption.
Alcohol and Other Additives
While not a tea, it’s important to mention that any tea mixed with alcohol or other additives can be harmful. Alcohol passes into breast milk and can affect an infant’s development and sleep patterns. Therefore, teas that contain alcohol or are intended to be mixed with alcoholic beverages should be strictly avoided.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers should be mindful of their tea choices. Moderation is key when it comes to caffeinated teas, while herbal teas should be approached with caution. Consulting with a healthcare provider about specific teas and their ingredients can help ensure both the mother’s and baby’s health are prioritized during this important time.

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.

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 tea causes lactation?

Some of the common herbs found in lactation teas are fenugreek, blessed thistle, fennel, stinging nettle, goat’s rue, moringa, and milk thistle. Fenugreek is an herb with a taste similar to maple syrup.

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 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 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 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.

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 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.

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