Green tea is a popular and healthy beverage that many people enjoy drinking every day. Expectant moms may have to cut a number of favorite foods and drinks from their diets, but green tea isn't one of them. Pregnant women can safely enjoy green tea, with or without caffeine, in moderation.
General Information
Green tea is a non-herbal tea that has a more delicate taste than black tea. Made from the leaves of the Camellia senensis plant, green tea tastes great hot or cold, with or without sweetener. According to the Baby Center website, it is safe to drink 3 to 4 cups of decaffeinated green tea a day during pregnancy.
Risks
Pregnant women should use caution, however, because green tea may affect the body's folic acid levels. Folic acid is one of the most important nutrients during pregnancy, as it can prevent certain birth defects. The Baby Center reports that drinking large amounts of green tea during pregnancy has been linked to neural tube defects, such as spina bifida. Tea and coffee can also make it difficult for the body to absorb iron from food, another important nutrient for expectant moms, since they supply blood for both their babies and themselves.
Caffeine
It's best to choose decaffeinated green tea during pregnancy, at least most of the time. According to the American Pregnancy Association, the average cup of non-herbal tea contains between 40 and 50 mg of caffeine, which does cross the placenta to reach the developing baby. Babies can't metabolize caffeine like adults can, so expectant moms should cut down to no more than 3 cups of caffeinated tea per day. Each cup of decaf non-herbal tea contains about .4 mg of caffeine. According to the Baby Center, regular green tea is lower in caffeine than other types of tea.
Benefits of Green Tea
Green tea is known for being rich in antioxidants, chemical compounds that can help to prevent cell damage in the body. According to MedlinePlus, green tea may protect against conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and kidney stones. It can also help treat stomach disorders, headaches and bone loss. In addition, green tea has been shown to help prevent some forms of cancer, including breast, prostate, colon, lung and skin cancers. Green tea has also been connected to better oral health, immunity and bone strength.
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