Tea and Pregnancy
Tea is a great drink for anyone, but when you are pregnant, some teas are more suited for consumption than others. It is best to seek the advice of your doctor prior to drinking tea during pregnancy, as some tea types can present a risk to the baby depending on the ingredients and the amount consumed.
Types of Tea Safe for Pregnancy
When pregnant, opt for the following teas that are considered safe:
- Green tea – high in antioxidants, compounds that help protect against cell damage and help promote better health for both you and the baby. Avoid consuming more than one cup daily.
- Chamomile tea – may help reduce heartburn and indigestion, although you should not rely solely on this tea to treat any medical conditions. You should drink no more than one cup of chamomile every day throughout pregnancy.
- Raspberry leaf tea – contains vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that are beneficial for pregnant women. A cup a day can help regulate hormones, which may help prevent premature labor. Consult your doctor before drinking raspberry leaf tea during pregnancy.
Types of Tea to Avoid
It is best to avoid these teas during pregnancy:
- Black tea – contains an ingredient called tannin, which may interfere with absorbing iron, an essential mineral for pregnant women. Avoid drinking black tea during pregnancy.
- Mint and ginger tea – both herbs contain properties that may lead to contractions, especially during the first trimester of pregnancy when the uterus is developing. Avoid drinking mint and ginger tea during pregnancy.
- Liquorice root tea – the roots of the liquorice plant contain a compound called glycyrrhizin, which may increase the risk of preterm labor. Consult your doctor before drinking liquorice root tea.
It is always important to talk to your doctor before drinking any type of tea when pregnant.
