Maté and breastfeeding: are they compatible?
There is no contraindication to drinking maté while breastfeeding. So the answer is yes! Provided you consume it in moderation and seek your doctor's reviews.
Maté and caffeine content
Why consume it in moderation? Because maté contains caffeine, as coffee does, but in smaller quantities! If consumed in excessive amounts, it can pass into breast milk and be ingested by your baby. It is therefore essential to follow the daily doses recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).
A matter of dosage
Present in yerba maté, the WHO recommends not exceeding 200 mg of caffeine per day.
A cup of maté contains around 70 mg of caffeine per 250 ml of maté.
How much caffeine do coffee and tea contain?
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A 150 ml filter coffee: up to 180 mg.
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A 33 ml espresso: up to 110 mg.
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A 230 ml cup of green tea: up to 50 mg.
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A 230 ml energy drink: 40 mg.
Possible side effects of caffeine
In the event of excessive maté consumption, and therefore caffeine consumption, certain side effects may occur:
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Nervousness
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Sleep disturbances
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Poor breast milk production
Also remember to take into account, in your calculation, other foods and drinks containing caffeine that you may consume during the day.
Choosing the right maté while breastfeeding
To fully enjoy the benefits of maté while breastfeeding, choose a quality, organic and pesticide-free product.
Why organic? Because the designation guarantees superior product quality, farming that respects the environment and numerous checks during production.
Kusmi Tea promises an explosion of flavours with the different varieties in its range. Citrus fruits or ginger, a Kusmi organic maté is made in Normandy and of the highest quality! By offering green tea from eco-responsible farming, the brand guarantees a healthy and delicious moment.
What alternatives to maté are there if I am breastfeeding?
Would you like to stop consuming caffeinated drinks during your breastfeeding period?
Infusions and herbal teas
The Kusmi brand offers a wide range of organic herbal teas and infusions: verbena, lime blossom, chamomile—there is no shortage of flavours and colours!
The rooibos
Not forgetting rooibos, which will delight lovers of fruity teas! Containing neither theine nor caffeine, you can enjoy these hot drinks at any time of day.
When breastfeeding your child, you need to be mindful of the amount of caffeine you consume each day. This way, you can continue to enjoy a cup of maté without taking any risks! Do not hesitate to ask your doctor for advice if you have any doubts or questions.
Sources:
- https://www.santepubliquefrance.fr/en/nutrition-and-physical-activity/brochure/breastfeeding-guide
- https://www.efsa.europa.eu/sites/default/files/corporate_publications/files/efsaexplainscaffeine150527fr.pdf (page 3)
- https://www.ico.org/fr/caffeine_f.asp
- https://www.efsa.europa.eu/fr/efsajournal/pub/4102