Matcha is high in antioxidants and makes it a healthy drink. But can I drink matcha while pregnant? Its benefits and side effects include:
Matcha tea, a type of powdered green tea, is popular for its vibrant green color. That’s not all. It’s not only high in caffeine but also antioxidants, which can provide a balanced energy boost without the anxiety that often associated with coffee. It’s no wonder that many people love using this fine flour to prepare tea, latte, smoothies, and even desserts. It could be a part of your daily meal. However, if you are hoping, you may wonder if drinking matcha during pregnancy is a good idea. There may be some benefits, but there are also potential side effects associated with the powdered form of green tea.
What are the benefits of drinking matcha during pregnancy?
Your pregnancy diet should be full of healthy foods such as colorful vegetables and fruits. Drinking matcha during pregnancy may also be beneficial. In a 2018 study published in the Science Report, researchers found the consumption of tea using catechins, which are like catechins that are infuriating in the early stages of pregnancy.
The key benefits of drinking matcha during pregnancy include:
1. Highly antioxidant
Matcha is packed with catechins, especially epigalocatechin belly drama. This helps fight oxidative stress and protect the cells in the body. “During pregnancy, these antioxidants can help strengthen the immune system and protect fetal development from oxidative damage,” says Dr Sadna Singhar Vishnoy, obstetrician and gynecologist.
2. Provides gentle energy improvements
“Unlike coffee, which can lead to energy levels and crash spikes, matcha can provide a stable and sustained energy boost through the combination of caffeine and L-theanine,” experts say. Drink matcha tea during pregnancy. It’s a great alternative to coffee. “It helps you fight pregnancy fatigue without significantly increasing anxiety or heart rate,” says the expert.
3. Supports digestion
Pregnancy can slow digestion and lead to bloating and constipation. “This type of healthy tea polyphenol can support digestion and gut health, which can reduce swelling and promote normal bowel movements,” experts say.
4. The risk of hypertension may be low
Sometimes women experience high blood pressure or high blood pressure 20 weeks after pregnancy. “Matcha flavonoids and catechins can improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of pregnancy-related hypertension, which is very common,” experts say.
How to prepare matcha during pregnancy?
Here are some ways to enjoy matcha during pregnancy:
1. Basic matcha
- Take 1 teaspoon of matcha powder and place it in a cup.
- Add 59 ml of warm water.
- Beat in circles until it foams.
- Add more warm water if necessary.
2. Matcha latte
- Put 1 teaspoon of matcha powder in a cup.
- Use warm milk (dairy or plant-based milk) instead of water.
- Whisk for a few seconds and enjoy.
“Pick high-quality organic matcha to avoid heavy metals and contaminants. You also drink matcha early in the day during pregnancy to avoid sleep disorders,” the expert says.
What are the side effects of drinking matcha tea during pregnancy?
Drinking matcha during pregnancy is good for you. “But keep it moderate, which means you only have one cup per day due to the caffeine content,” says Dr. Vishnoi. Excessive consumption of this type of tea can lead to side effects.
1. It may affect fetal development
Matcha has a relatively high caffeine content of 18.9-44.4 mg per gram, according to a study published in the Molecule in 2020. While you’re expecting, caffeine consumption should be less than 200 milligrams per day. “Too much caffeine can increase the risk of miscarriage, babies being less weighty and premature birth,” experts say.
2. It can reduce folic acid absorption
Drinking matcha during pregnancy can be healthy due to the presence of catechins. “However, they can also prevent the absorption of folic acid, which is essential to prevent birth defects,” experts say. To minimize risk, there is at least 1-2 hours from prenatal vitamins or folic acid supplements.
3. It can reduce iron absorption
The powdered version of green tea contains tannins and can be bound to iron from plant-based foods (non-heme iron). This way, important iron absorption can be reduced during pregnancy. “Iron can prevent anemia, fatigue and low birth weight,” says Dr. Vishnoy. Do not drink this tea in a diet that contains iron-rich foods such as spinach, beans, and lentils.
4. It can cause digestive problems
Some pregnant women may experience nausea and acid reflux due to the presence of caffeine and tannins in their matcha. “Also, drinking it on an empty stomach can lead to stomach irritation,” experts say. To prevent discomfort, eat and not hunger before bringing.
5. Overstimulation
The high caffeine content of matcha tea can lead to sleep problems and restlessness. To prevent this, try not to eat this drink late in the afternoon or in the evening,” experts say. This way, there is no excessive stimulation and you can sleep like a baby.
You can drink matcha during pregnancy, but only sticks to one cup a day. Overconsumption of this type of tea can cause caffeine-related risks, reduced absorption of folic acid or iron, and digestive discomfort. Also, choose high quality matcha and don’t avoid it on an empty stomach.
Related FAQs
What tea should you avoid during pregnancy?
Tea like black tea is rich in caffeine and can cause insomnia, anxiety and heart movement pit. Herbal teas like Sage Tea contain tujong, which can cause uterine contractions and miscarriage.
Does matcha tea affect fertility?
High in catechins and epigalocatechin belly rocks that help reduce oxidative stress. Reducing oxidative stress is important as it can impair egg quality and affect fertility. Matcha contains L-theanine, which helps reduce cortisol levels. High stress and cortisol levels can disrupt ovulation and menstrual cycles. However, because it contains caffeine, high doses can have a negative effect on fertility.
