 One of the most frequent questions we hear is: while I'm pregnant, is it safe to eat or drink _______? And, if so, how much?
So, during pregnancy, are tea & coffee safe to consume? If so, how much is safe? Tea & coffee both contain caffeine, which is harmful for both the mother & the fetus. Caffeine slows down certain physiological activities which can cause difficulty in getting pregnant. In addition, consuming high levels of caffeine can reduce your body's ability to absorb iron, leading to low hemoglobin levels and iron deficiency anemia in the mother. This can, if left untreated, cause serious effects for both mother & baby. Finally, intake of more caffeine during pregnancy can cause low birth weight during childbirth. As a result, the recommended daily safe quantities are 100-150mg of caffeine. That's about 1-2 cups of tea. Since different types of coffees have different levels of caffeine, it is particularly important to check your coffee to estimate the amount that is safe for you and your baby. (https://cspinet.org/eating-healthy/ingredients-of-concern/caffeine-chart) Please note that green tea is not very different from regular tea & should not be consumed in excess quantities. Moderation is the key, and in the case of tea & coffee, it should be taken very seriously. Instead of a cup, you can always indulge in other activities like yoga, meditation, or long walks for easing your stress which can even leave you feeling fresh & healthy! |
