Green Tea and Pregnancy
Pregnant women often wonder if it’s okay for them to drink green tea. The answer is complicated – green tea can be enjoyed during pregnancy, but there are some important things to consider first.
Benefits of Drinking Green Tea During Pregnancy
Green tea offers several potential benefits during pregnancy such as:
- Reducing the risk of preeclampsia – Preeclampsia is a serious medical condition that can happen during pregnancy. Drinking green tea has been linked to a lower risk of preeclampsia.
- Improving digestion – Green tea contains polyphenols which can help to improve digestion and can help to make the digestive system stronger
- Lowering cholesterol – Research has found that drinking green tea, in conjunction with a balanced diet, may lower high cholesterol levels, which is beneficial for both the mother and the baby during pregnancy.
Risks of Drinking Green Tea During Pregnancy
While there are some potential benefits to drinking green tea during pregnancy, there are also some risks that should be considered.
- Caffeine – Green tea does contain caffeine, so pregnant women should be mindful of their daily caffeine intake when drinking green tea. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that pregnant women not consume more than 200 mg of caffeine per day.
- Tannins – Green tea also contains tannins, which can cause contractions and cause dehydration. This can be dangerous during pregnancy, so pregnant women should be careful not to over-consume green tea.
Conclusion
Green tea can be safely consumed during pregnancy, but it’s important to be mindful of the potential risks. Pregnant women should not exceed the recommended daily intake of 200 mg of caffeine, and should also be mindful of tannin levels. By following these guidelines, pregnant women can safely enjoy green tea during pregnancy.
