The habit of drinking tea is associated, by many, with a lifestyle However, not everyone can ingest all types of herbs, you know. In the case of tea consumption during breastfeeding, for example, you need to keep an eye on a few details. Learn more:

Teas and breastfeeding: the issue of food safety

The first point that the lactating woman must keep an eye on is the issue of food safety There are countless types of teas available on the market (even more so in a country as large as ours), and this product is used in various ways, such as in bulk [i.e., the loose herb] or in industrialized sachets," explains Dr. Monica Fairbanks de Barros, gynecologist, obstetrician, and member of Febrasgo's National Specialized Committee on Breastfeeding.

This is because, according to the specialist, there is the risk of biological contamination (i.e., by bacteria, fungi, parasites, or insects) and/or chemical contamination (for example, mercury and agricultural residues).

"There is also the problem of plant counterfeiting Therefore, it is very important to check the quality of the tea (the sachet teas are safer than those in bulk), as well as to prepare it at the time of consumption and without exaggerating on the dosage," she recommends.

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What teas can a lactating woman drink?

In addition, it is important to know the herbs that are allowed for lactating women. The nutritionist Julia Andrade, from Ritual Sowl, indicates those with galactogenic properties They help in the production of breast milk ", he explains.

Dr. Monica Fairbanks cites fennel, fennel, fenugreek, caraway, and nettle as examples: "They can also contribute to the treatment of gas and colic ", he adds.

Finally, it is worth remembering: talk to your doctor or other specialized professional about the consumption of teas during breastfeeding, and be aware of possible side effects. In addition, when you have difficulty producing milk, be sure to talk to your baby's pediatrician so that he or she can advise you about the breastfeeding !

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Which teas to avoid during breastfeeding?

On the other hand, lactating women should avoid some little plants. According to the experts, they are:

• Those that can decrease milk production: lemon balm (or melissa), oregano, parsley, mint, thyme, sage, and jasmine;
• It increases the risks of hypotension (low blood pressure) and contractions of the uterus: carqueja tea;
• They can alter the taste of the milk and harm the baby's health: black tea, green tea, mate tea, carqueja tea, ginseng, ginger, licorice, horsetail, artichoke, macela, bolds, arnica, hibiscus, and star anise;
• There is no evidence that they are safe during breastfeeding: cinnamon, calendula, garlic, horse chestnut, and confrei;
• They carry large amounts of caffeine: green tea, mate tea, and black tea.

Sources:

• Dr. Monica Fairbanks de Barros, Obstetrician and Gynecologist and member of the National Specialized Committee on Breastfeeding of the Brazilian Association of Breastfeeding Organizations Febrasgo ;
• Julia Andrade, nutritionist at Ritual Sowl .