What to avoid in tea while breastfeeding?

Understanding What to Avoid in Tea While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a crucial time for both mother and baby, and what a mother consumes can significantly impact her child’s health. While tea can be a soothing beverage, certain types and ingredients should be approached with caution during this period.
Caffeine Concerns
One of the primary components to be wary of in tea is caffeine. Teas such as black, green, and white contain caffeine, which can pass into breast milk. Research indicates that babies exposed to caffeine may experience increased irritability and difficulty sleeping. Therefore, it is advisable for breastfeeding mothers to limit their intake of caffeinated teas to minimize these potential effects on their infants.
Herbal Teas: A Mixed Bag
Herbal teas can be a more appealing option for nursing mothers, but not all herbal ingredients are safe. Certain herbs, such as anise, fennel, blessed thistle, and coriander, have been flagged for their lack of safety data regarding breastfeeding. Additionally, other herbs like lemongrass, oregano, parsley, peppermint, ginseng, and kava should be avoided or consumed only under medical supervision, as they may pose risks to both the mother and the baby.
Potential Allergens and Sensitivities
Breastfeeding mothers should also be cautious about potential allergens. Some women may have food allergies that could affect their babies, leading to allergic reactions or sensitivities. This is particularly relevant when consuming herbal teas, as the ingredients can vary widely and may include allergens.
Impact on Milk Supply
Certain herbs are known to potentially decrease milk supply when consumed in large amounts. While typical culinary uses of these herbs are generally safe, excessive consumption, especially in concentrated forms like teas, could be detrimental.
General Recommendations
In summary, while tea can be enjoyed during breastfeeding, it is essential to choose wisely. Avoid caffeinated teas to prevent irritability in babies, and be cautious with herbal teas, particularly those with less established safety profiles. Always consult with a healthcare provider if unsure about specific ingredients or if considering herbal remedies. By being mindful of tea choices, breastfeeding mothers can help ensure a healthier experience for both themselves and their infants.

What ingredient dries up breast milk?

Pseudoephedrine, or Sudafed, is a common over-the-counter decongestant. Research shows the Sudafed causes a noticeable decrease in milk production. Like birth control, Sudafed should only be used to suppress lactation under the supervision of a doctor.

What foods make breastfed babies gassy?

Many mothers have reported foods such as kale, spinach, beans, onions, garlic, peppers or spicy foods cause infant gas, while many babies tolerate these foods just fine.

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.

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.

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 should I 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 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 foods make reflux worse in breastfed babies?

Citrus fruit, tomatoes, caffeine containing drinks (tea, coffee, coke) and chocolate may also need to be avoided by the breast-feeding mother of a reflux baby. Remember that all babies are different and different babies react to different foods – the list above is a guideline only.

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.

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.