Fact-checked
х

All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.

We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.

If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.

Red tea in pregnancy

Medical expert of the article

Gynecologist, reproductive specialist
, medical expert
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025

Pregnancy is associated with many restrictions related to food products. During pregnancy, it is not recommended to consume raw and poorly processed foods, caffeine, drinks containing alcohol and other food products. In this regard, it is important for pregnant women to know which products contain substances that are dangerous for the fetus.

A definitive answer to whether it is possible to drink red tea during pregnancy is only possible by taking into account all the components of this product.

trusted-source[ 1 ], [ 2 ]

Benefits

Red tea contains substances that can have a beneficial effect on the development of the fetus and the well-being of the expectant mother. The benefits of red tea during pregnancy are directly related to substances such as:

  1. methionine (an essential amino acid that is an important component for detoxifying the body, stimulates the immune system, has a beneficial effect on digestive processes, and helps to get rid of the feeling of discomfort after eating too much fatty food).
  2. catechins (a type of antioxidant, a substance from the flavonoid group that has a positive effect on the human body and prevents the development of various diseases).
  3. zinc (plays a role in the processes of formation of the fetal skeleton, synthesis and stabilization of insulin, cell division, has an antitoxic effect; zinc deficiency in the body of a pregnant woman is fraught with fetal malformations, including hydrocephalus, curvature of the spine and others, and also increases the risk of ruptures during childbirth, the development of infections and slow opening of the birth canal).
  4. fluorine (important for the formation of the fetal skeleton and ensures bone strength).
  5. proteins (protein substances are the building material for the tissues and organs of the fetus).

Contraindications

The main contraindications concern caffeine, which is part of this product. Caffeine during pregnancy:

  1. Negatively affects fetal weight gain.
  2. Increases blood pressure and heart rate in pregnant women.
  3. Stimulates the nervous system, which can lead to insomnia and irritability.
  4. When interacting with theophylline, which is also a constituent of red tea, it can have a strong diuretic effect.
  5. Increases the duration of pregnancy.
  6. There are known correlations between caffeine consumption and subsequent fetal death.

In this regard, red tea is not recommended for pregnant women. However, moderate consumption of the drink in small doses with reduced concentration is allowed. The World Health Organization recommends that women who consumed more than 300 mg of caffeine per day before pregnancy reduce its amount due to possible risks. It is also recommended to add milk to red tea, which reduces the effect of the tonic component of caffeine.

trusted-source[ 3 ]


The iLive portal does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
The information published on the portal is for reference only and should not be used without consulting a specialist.
Carefully read the rules and policies of the site. You can also contact us!

Copyright © 2011 - 2025 iLive. All rights reserved.