Matcha is a type of green tea that has gained a lot of popularity in recent years! I see it everywhere and maybe you have switched from coffee to matcha due to its many health benefits, such as high levels of antioxidants. Now you’re pregnant and might wonder if it is safe to drink matcha tea during pregnancy. While green tea is generally considered safe for consumption during pregnancy, there are some important factors to consider when it comes to drinking matcha green tea while pregnant.
Can you drink matcha while pregnant?
First, you are probably aware that matcha contains caffeine as many people shift from coffee to matcha. Caffeine is a stimulant that can affect both the mother and the developing fetus. Caffeine can cross the placenta and enter the bloodstream of the fetus, which can affect its heart rate and cause other negative effects. Because of that, it is recommended that as an expecting mother you should limit your caffeine consumption during pregnancy.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women limit their caffeine intake to less than 200 milligrams per day. One cup of matcha tea contains approximately 35 mgs of caffeine, so it is important to keep track of your daily caffeine and matcha tea consumption if you are pregnant and drinking matcha. But a cup here and there should be fine for you.
Another factor to consider when drinking matcha while pregnant is its lead content. Green tea leaves are known to absorb lead from the soil, and matcha is made from high-quality green tea leaves that have been shade-grown. This means that matcha can contain higher levels of lead than other types of green tea. Lead exposure during pregnancy can cause negative effects on the developing fetus, like developmental delays. Therefore, it is important to choose high-quality, organic matcha that has been tested for lead levels and to preferably limit your consumption of matcha green tea during pregnancy.
There are other potential health concerns associated with drinking matcha green tea during pregnancy you should know about. Some studies have suggested that high levels of polyphenols in green tea can interfere with iron absorption, which is important for the development of the fetus.
Some compounds in green tea can also affect the metabolism of certain medications, which can be particularly concerning for women who are taking medications during pregnancy. Make sure to talk to your doctor if you’re taking medications to see what you can and cannot combine with them.
Benefits
Even though you can see these potential concerns, there are also many health benefits associated with drinking green tea matcha during pregnancy. For one, matcha is a rich source of antioxidants, which can help to protect the mother and the fetus from oxidative stress.
In addition, matcha tea is a natural source of L-theanine, an amino acid that can help to reduce stress and improve mood. These health benefits make matcha an attractive choice for many women during pregnancy.
Overall, drinking matcha while pregnant is generally considered safe. There are just some factors to consider but can give you a bit of extra energy for pregnancy safe workouts or when you’re just tired. As a pregnant women you should limit your caffeine intake by watching the caffeine content, choose high-quality, organic matcha that has been tested for lead levels, and be aware of potential interactions with medications.
Also keep in mind that while looking at your matcha green tea consumption, you can’t forget about other green teas or matcha lattes you want to drink.
As with any type of food or beverage during pregnancy, it is best for you to consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating or keeping matcha into your diet to ensure the health and safety of both you and your developing baby.
