Green tea during pregnancy

Characteristics of green tea

Green tea is considered to be one of the healthiest drinks known to mankind. Its regular consumption can prevent the development of vascular diseases such as arteriosclerosis and reduce the risk of an ischaemic stroke. In addition, drinking green tea protects against obesity as it promotes the reduction of body fat. It should not be forgotten that green tea contains many micro- and macronutrients that our bodies need, such as calcium, potassium, zinc and vitamins A, B, C and E. It is known that regular consumption of the brew can reduce the risk of cancer due to the antioxidants contained in tea. These prevent the formation of free radicals, which are responsible for the ageing of the body and the development of various diseases. For these reasons, many people reach for a cup of green tea every day.

Can you drink green tea during pregnancy?

Women who regularly drank green tea before pregnancy often ask doctors whether they can safely continue to consume the brew during the nine months. Experts’ opinions are divided here. The positive effects on reducing the risk of excessive weight gain during pregnancy or the occurrence of vascular diseases are obvious. However, it should be borne in mind that green tea contains caffeine, which is not prohibited during pregnancy, but should be consumed in moderation. In addition, the substances contained in green tea can reduce the absorption of nutrients such as folic acid, which is very important for the development of the baby’s nervous system at the beginning of pregnancy, and iron, which can lead to the development of anaemia. When asked whether green tea can be drunk during pregnancy, doctors usually answer that it is not dangerous if it is not drunk in excessive quantities. One cup a day should not lead to complications. However, choose blends with a known composition that you obtain from reliable sources.

Green tea during pregnancy – effects on the baby

Green tea during pregnancy, drunk in small quantities, has no effect on the baby’s development. Recently, however, there have been reports of possible negative effects of an excess of antioxidants, especially towards the end of pregnancy. Their anti-inflammatory effect could influence the inhibition of the production of prostaglandins, which, among other things, prevent the premature closure of the arterial duct during pregnancy. This prevents the development of pulmonary hypertension in the baby, for example. So if a woman drinks large quantities of green tea during the third trimester, this type of complication can theoretically occur. For this reason, some doctors advise against consuming the brew in the final weeks of pregnancy.