What teas should you not drink while breastfeeding?

Understanding Tea Choices While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a crucial time for both mother and baby, and what a mother consumes can significantly impact her milk and, consequently, her infant’s health. While many teas can be beneficial, certain types should be approached with caution or avoided altogether.
Caffeine-Containing Teas
One of the primary concerns for breastfeeding mothers is caffeine. Teas such as black, green, and white contain varying levels of caffeine, which can pass into breast milk. This transfer can lead to potential issues for the baby, including irritability and sleep disturbances. For instance, an 8-ounce serving of green tea contains about 24 to 45 mg of caffeine, which is less than coffee but still significant enough to warrant caution. Experts generally recommend limiting caffeine intake to about 300 mg per day, which translates to roughly two to three cups of tea.
Herbal Teas to Avoid
In addition to caffeinated teas, certain herbal teas can pose risks. Some herbs may affect milk supply or have other adverse effects. For example, teas containing sage or peppermint have been noted to potentially decrease milk production when consumed in large amounts. Furthermore, herbal teas are not regulated by the FDA, meaning their purity and safety cannot be guaranteed. Therefore, it’s essential to be cautious with herbal blends and consult a healthcare provider about specific ingredients.
Specific Herbs of Concern
Certain herbs are particularly advised against during breastfeeding. For instance, fenugreek, while often touted for its lactation-boosting properties, can cause gastrointestinal issues in some infants. Similarly, chamomile and echinacea are herbs that should be discussed with a healthcare provider before consumption. These herbs can have varying effects on different individuals, and their safety during breastfeeding isn’t universally established.
Conclusion
In summary, while many teas can be enjoyed during breastfeeding, mothers should be mindful of their choices. Caffeinated teas should be limited to avoid potential irritability in babies, and certain herbal teas should be approached with caution due to their possible effects on milk supply and infant health. Always consult with a healthcare professional when in doubt about specific teas or herbs to ensure both mother and baby remain healthy and happy.

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 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 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.

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 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 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 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 reduce breast milk?

Top 5 food / drinks to avoid if you have a low milk supply:

• Carbonated beverages.
• 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 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.