Tea is one of the most loved beverages in the world, and one of the oldest. Man has been brewing teas since thousands of years. Although it was initially used only as a medicinal beverage, thanks to its many wonderful properties, today it has become more of a luxury drink that people indulge in at their leisure. Although the level of tea consumption doffers from nation to nation, there is no region that does not consume some amount of tea in some form. However, despite its many medicinal properties, tea is also often frowned upon due to its caffeine content. Which brings us to the important question: can you drink tea during pregnancy?
Yes, in moderation
The short and simple answer to that question is: yes. There is really no harm in drinking tea when you are pregnant, especially since tea has, as mentioned before, medicinal properties, and will actually help your immunity during your pregnancy. It contains a lot of polyphenols and antioxidants, which helps in protecting the heart and lowering the risk of cancer. Besides, tea also has a host of other nutrients that give a major boost to the immune system. It is well known that a cup of tea in the morning has the ability to reduce morning sickness, and some kinds of teas are also known to shorten labor and prevent miscarriages. However, teas contain ample amounts of caffeine, which can be potentially harmful to the pregnant woman.
Herbal is healthy
A good idea would be to opt for the healthier teas. Some teas, for instance, are grown specifically for pregnant women, and such pregnancy teas are known to prevent miscarriages, still births, and too long or too short gestation periods. Some teas, if drunk regularly throughout the pregnancy, can help in significantly reducing labor pain and even shortening the period off labor, making delivery a lot easier. Herbal teas are especially good for such cases. Teas that are brewed actually from tea leaves usually contain a higher amount of caffeine, but very good quality and unprocessed teas, such as white and green teas, contain a very little amount of the same, and can be drunk to satisfy your tea cravings during pregnancy.
Avoid non-herbals
It is best to avoid drinking tea that contains a very high amount of caffeine. Non-herbal teas, that is, tea that is brewed from tea leaves, contains the maximum amount of caffeine. Even if you had been in the habit of drinking non herbal teas such as black and oolong teas before your pregnancy, avoid them altogether during those nine months. If your morning does not start without a cup of fresh tea, opt for the white and green versions instead. You should also avoid drinking teas that are brewed specifically to deal with PMS symptoms, or those infused with herbs like dong quai, blue cohosh, and black cohosh. These herbs can cause diarrhea and lead to dehydration.
Also read: Can I drink ice water during pregnancy?
Tea is one of the most miraculous drinks in the world. the ancient Chinese first started drinking tea as a medicinal supplement, and since then, it has spread worldwide as the most basic and most luxurious of beverages. However, it is best to exercise caution with this soothing drink for the nine months of your pregnancy.