Caffeine is a compound commonly associated with coffee. However, it is also present in tea. It is one of the reasons why you may find tea refreshing. However, if you are a tea drinker, you may consider switching to decaf tea during pregnancy. Decaf tea has the same pleasant flavor and aroma as standard tea but without caffeine. Decaf tea could be an option during pregnancy due to the potential side effects of caffeine on the mother and the baby in the womb. You need not completely avoid caffeine, and moderate quantities are usually safe to consume during pregnancy. However, if you are an avid tea drinker and need several cups a day, decaf tea could be an ideal choice since it can help you stay clear from excess caffeine consumption. Read on to learn about decaf tea, its safety, and how much decaf tea is safe to consume during pregnancy.
What is Decaf Tea?
Decaf is simply your caffeine source, tea or coffee, minus the caffeine. When you opt for a decaf tea, the flavoring elements remain intact while the caffeine is either removed or reduced significantly (1). It means that you don’t compromise on taste while removing caffeine that may have negative effects on your pregnancy.
Why Is Too Much Caffeine Bad During Pregnancy?
Consuming high levels of caffeine during pregnancy can have negative effects on your baby. Common problems, including the low birth weight, preterm labor are often linked to high caffeine consumption during pregnancy (2). Here are few other risks that you expose yourself and your baby with excessive caffeine consumption (2):
Excess caffeine can harm your baby’s development during pregnancy.
Caffeine acts on your central nervous system by acting as an instant stimulant. This, in turn, can increase your blood pressure and hence your heart rate.
It can lead to severe gastritis.
Health risks like miscarriages are also found to have an increased rate due to high caffeine consumption.
Is Decaf Tea Safe During Pregnancy?
Yes, decaf tea during pregnancy is absolutely safe! It is the best way you can enjoy your share of daily caffeine but in a controlled and healthy way (3).
Will I Have To Give Up Caffeine Completely?
No! Although, it is best to avoid it if you can, if you cannot, you still can enjoy your tea or coffee, but in moderation (2).
How Much Decaf Tea Is Safe During Pregnancy?
Your total caffeine consumption in a day should not exceed 200 mg (2). It roughly is around two regular mugs of tea or coffee. A cup of decaf contains about 2 milligrams of caffeine (3). So adjust your caffeine intake accordingly. It is not just your cup of coffee or tea that contains caffeine. Here are other some other drinks and foods that contain caffeine (2):
Chocolate (both milk and plain)
Cola
Energy drink
Bottled iced tea
Instant coffee
Brewed coffee
Brewed tea
So remember that your total caffeine intake should not exceed 200 mg in a day and that limit must include all caffeine foods and drinks you consume through the day.
