Many questions arise when you decide to breastfeed. During breastfeeding, certain foods and drinks are not recommended and/or permitted. As every case is unique, Kusmi recommends first and foremost that you seek your doctor’s advice if you have any doubts or questions. This article is for matcha tea lovers wishing to breastfeed. Is this prestigious drink from Japan permitted while breastfeeding? If so, how much can be consumed? Kusmi sheds some light on the matter.
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Matcha tea, permitted while breastfeeding
Yes and no! Kusmi strongly advises you to ask a healthcare professional. Only they can tell you whether your consumption of matcha tea poses a risk during your breastfeeding period. Bear in mind that everyone is different and that some women may well be able to continue enjoying their weekly matcha.
Matcha tea and caffeine
Matcha tea is green tea ground into powder; it therefore contains theine (a molecule similar to caffeine). One cup of green tea is estimated to contain thirty milligrams of theine. For matcha tea, it is slightly higher: between 50 and 70 mg. Why is the content higher? Because the entire green tea leaf is ground into powder and then consumed. This is why matcha tea is richer in nutrients, vitamins and antioxidants.
Young mothers could therefore consume it as long as the quantity is controlled and a doctor has given their approval. Indeed, it is generally recommended to limit stimulants while breastfeeding because caffeine passes into breast milk when consumed in excessive quantities.
Matcha tea and iron absorption
Matcha tea, like other teas, makes iron absorption more difficult. It may therefore be preferable to drink matcha tea during or just after meals. Ideally, save this little pleasure for other times of the day.
How many cups of matcha tea per day while breastfeeding?
Unfortunately, we cannot give you an exact answer; we advise you to ask your doctor. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, as we have explained, it is recommended to monitor your caffeine intake. It is all a matter of quantity! One or two cups a day, depending on how you measure your matcha tea, would generally be advisable. Preferably away from meals and after seeking your doctor’s advice.
What if you drink more in one day?
Do not worry if you lose count during one day. It appears that theine disappears within 24 hours: in this case, speak directly to your doctor. Breast milk produced after this period will no longer contain theine.
The benefits of matcha tea for our health
Matcha tea is a drink with many benefits. Very rich in antioxidants, particularly EGCG polyphenols (epigallocatechin gallate), matcha, like all other green teas, helps combat oxidative stress and preserve cellular youthfulness.
Antioxidants play a very important role in the body and are beneficial for the immune system, as they help boost immunity.
Matcha tea also contains many nutrients, minerals and vitamins (such as C and B). Finally, the presence of L-theanine enables it to provide you with energy while remaining soothing. Indeed, this amino acid helps reduce feelings of anxiety and mental and physical stress.
The information you need:
Did you know that matcha, like all teas, is a stimulant rather than an excitant like coffee? While coffee provides an almost immediate boost effect followed by a drop in energy, tea invigorates and provides a constant, gentle sense of vitality throughout the day. Say goodbye to the nervousness you may feel after drinking a cup of coffee and hello to energised calm!
Choosing your matcha tea well
Kusmi recommends choosing certified organic matcha tea powder. This designation guarantees a quality, pesticide-free product thanks to the many quality controls carried out during tea production and processing.
Herbal teas and infusions, a great alternative
Herbal teas and infusions are also a very good alternative if you wish to reduce or stop drinking tea while breastfeeding. For the exact list of plants permitted during this period, consult your doctor. They will be able to guide you towards breastfeeding herbal teas, specially designed to promote breast milk production.
Fennel, verbena, lime blossom and chamomile make excellent companions. Containing neither theine nor caffeine, rooibos (such as our almond rooibos or vanilla rooibos) will also offer pleasure and indulgence! This drink originating from South Africa, also known as “red bush” or “red tea”, is part of the infusion family. You will also find something to enjoy among our 100% theine-free fruit waters, delicious hot or cold.
Matcha tea lovers can therefore rest assured! By paying attention to quantities and the consumption of theine/caffeine, and with a doctor’s approval, you can continue to enjoy this little pleasure without putting your baby at risk.
Source:
https://www.santepubliquefrance.fr/en/nutrition-and-physical-activity/brochure/breastfeeding-guide