Pregnancy is a special moment for most women. This is also the time when they undergo a lot of changes, be it hormonal, physiological, or psychological. She may have anxiety, mood swings, depression, and unsettling thoughts but if there's anything common among all women during this entire period - lasting around 40 weeks or 280 days - is cravings and aversions for certain foods and that includes tea and coffee. Many expectant mothers reveal the very smell of coffee or/and tea turns them off even though they loved them before becoming pregnant. But, even if you don't experience this, it is still advisable to avoid tea and especially coffee during your gestation. Dr. Aashita Jain, IVF Specialist, Birla Fertility & IVF, Surat, Gujarat, lists three reasons behind the same.
3 Reasons Why You Should Avoid Tea Or Coffee During Pregnancy
One should be mindful about the diet during pregnancy, says Dr. Jain, including hot beverages like tea or coffee. Here are three reasons, according to her, why you should avoid consuming them:
1) Caffeine Intake:
Both tea and coffee contain caffeine, which can cross the placenta. High caffeine intake during pregnancy has been associated with risks such as low birth weight, preterm birth, and miscarriage. The general guideline is to limit caffeine consumption to 200–300 mg per day, which is roughly the amount in one small cup of coffee. While it’s okay to have a moderate amount of tea or coffee, excessive consumption should be avoided. For those particularly sensitive to caffeine, switching to herbal teas or decaffeinated versions may be a good option.
2) Nutrient Absorption:
Caffeine in tea and coffee can interfere with absorbing essential nutrients, such as iron, which is particularly important during pregnancy. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, so it’s advisable to avoid consuming caffeinated drinks with meals to ensure optimal nutrient absorption.
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3) Hydration:
Pregnancy increases the need for proper hydration. While tea and coffee do provide some fluids, they can have a mild diuretic effect, which may increase the need for additional water. Ensuring you are drinking enough water throughout the day is key to maintaining hydration and supporting both maternal and fetal health.
Having said that, Dr. Jain cautions, "It’s fine to enjoy a warm cup of tea or coffee during pregnancy, but it’s best to avoid drinking it while it’s piping hot. Consuming beverages at such temperatures can potentially damage the delicate tissues in the mouth and throat, which are especially sensitive during pregnancy. It is also important to avoid any risk of burns or discomfort, especially if there’s already increased sensitivity in the body."
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