Although pregnant women should avoid drinking green tea, the National Institute of Health considers drinking moderate amount of black tea safe for expectant mothers and breastfeeding women. However, we should be aware that there are few circumstances where pregnant women and nursing mothers should give up black tea completely.

Black Tea

Black tea is the most caffeinated tea processed from leaves of the tea plant, Camellia sinensis. Also, it is the most widely consumed tea in the United States. In fact, Americans enjoy both hot and cold tea. Moreover, black tea is the basis for Chai, a popular Indian drink with cinnamon and cardamom spices.

Black tea and its caffeine content

Due to long process of fermentation of black tea, it has the most the caffeine content of all teas, which is from 40 to 120 mg. Experts from the Brigham Young University suggest that pregnant women should limit their caffeine intake to less than 300 mg a day, or the equivalent of 8 oz. cups of black tea. In addition, other foods containing caffeine such as coffee, carbonated cola drinks and chocolates shall be taken into consideration as well.

Further Side Effects of Black Tea

Apparently, the caffeine content is not the only possible problem with black tea in pregnancy. Black tea is a natural diuretic, thus is can increase urine output. Therefore, if you already reached the stage in pregnancy where you need to have frequent trips to the comfort room, then it’s time to reduce your tea consumption.

Moreover, black tea can also cause sleep disruption and high blood pressure, which are both common complications during pregnancy, particularly during the third trimester. Thus, it is highly suggested to avoid drinking black tea if you develop these symptoms.

Other Black Tea Risks

Black tea is also not recommended for diabetics as it can increase the blood sugar levels and compels a change in your medication. Also, when you developed pregnancy-related anemia, avoid black tea since it can aggravates anemia. In addition, if your obstetrician is concerned about your calcium levels during your pregnancy, you should avoid any caffeinated beverages as caffeine reduces the body’s calcium reserves.