Understanding Green Tea and Pregnancy Risks

Opinions varying regarding the consumption of green tea while pregnant. Some professionals say it is find in moderation while others are absolutely against it. The best way to decide whether it is “right or wrong” to drink it while carrying a baby can be examined by exploring this substance’s advantages and disadvantages.

Health Advantages

This substance offers benefits to a woman whether she is pregnant or not. This particular natural substance helps promote positive dental health, reduces risk of cancer, and keeps blood sugar and blood pressure levels low.

It also helps reduce LDL cholesterol count and increases the body’s metabolism. Moreover, it also provides a natural source of energy. It could possibly stabilize a pregnant woman’s moods. However, this has not been proven.

Health Concerns

The main concern about drinking green tea is the caffeine in it. However, it is less than the amount of caffeine in stronger coffees sold on the market today. Besides, quite a few varieties of decaffeinated versions are available of this particular beverage.

Another main concern about drinking green tea is that it interferes with the way a pregnant woman’s body processes folate. Usually what happens when a woman drinks green tea is the EGCG with the enzyme DHFR, and deactivation of this enzyme occurs. This causes the body to not be able to process folate, which is a very important developmental nutrient.

Additionally, another source reports that too much consumption of green tea during pregnancy could reduce the effectiveness of Iron and Calcium. These also are very important nutrients necessary for proper fetal growth and development.

Dosage and Usage Recommendations

The recommended amount of green tea to drink while pregnant is two to three cups per day. The decaffeinated form would be best. However, a very small amount of caffeine is said to be safe.

As far as using green tea, it is said to be safer after the first month or so of pregnancy. However, it is recommended to wait until after the first trimester to drink it.

On the other hand, the effect of this beverage on the folate reaction in a pregnant woman’s body can be diminished. Usually all that is needed is to each more foods rich in folic acid.

When in Doubt

If you are not sure something is safe it is wise to avoid it until you talk to a trusted professional. Your family doctor or nutritionist would be able to provide you with the best source of information regarding use of using green tea.

Alternatives

Herbs that you know are for sure safe while pregnant include red raspberry leaf, peppermint leaf, and lemon balm. The raspberry can strengthen the uterus and help reduce labor pains.

However, just like green tea it is recommended that the raspberry be used after the first trimester. Peppermint leaf on the other hand, it probably can be used during any time of the pregnancy. However, you may want to double check with your doctor on that.

Peppermint is beneficial as an inhibitor of nausea and flatulence. In addition, lemon balm can reduce anxiety and insomnia.

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