Can you drink kombucha tea during pregnancy and lactation?

We have already told you in detail what is kombucha and what are its properties and health benefitsand we have also explained how to make homemade kombucha teabut today we would like to talk about the kombucha during pregnancy: Can I drink kombucha if I’m pregnant? Is it safe to drink kombucha while breastfeeding? Can some of the compounds in kombucha affect the fetus…?

These are some of the questions that women often ask when they get pregnant and don’t know if they can continue taking kombucha tea during the gestation.

What is kombucha?

The kombucha is a fermented drink made of black tea, sugar, and a culture of bacteria and yeast known as SCOBY. Although kombucha is an ancient drink with a long history of use in Asia, it has recently gained popularity due to its purported health profile.

Although there is a limited amount of scientific research on kombucha, some studies have examined its potential benefits, most notably its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, liver and heart health protectors.

However, it is important to note that most of these studies have been done in animals and no long-term studies have been done in humans. Therefore, it is important to be cautious about kombucha health claims, as more research is still needed to fully understand its potential findings.

Kombucha and pregnancy

It is important to be cautious with foods and drinks you consume during pregnancy, including kombucha. Although some studies have suggested that kombucha may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory propertiesMost of these studies have been done in animals and no long-term studies have been done in humans. Therefore, it is not known for sure if kombucha is safe during pregnancy.

Additionally, kombucha contains small amounts of acetic acid and alcohol, which can be harmful to the health of the mother and the fetus in large quantities. Some studies have suggested that acetic acid can be toxic to fetuses developing, while other studies have found that the alcohol in kombucha may be harmful to the health of the fetus.

It is also important to note that kombucha is a fermentation productwhich means that its alcohol and acetic acid content can vary depending on the length and temperature of fermentation.

Therefore, if you decide to drink kombucha during pregnancy it is important to choose a kombucha with a low amount of alcohol and avoid kombucha that has been fermented for an extended period, as this can increase the levels of acetic acid and alcohol in the drink.

Frequently asked questions about kombucha and its consumption during pregnancy and lactation

Is it safe to drink kombucha during pregnancy?

There is controversy about the consumption of kombucha during pregnancy, and there is not enough scientific evidence to support a clear recommendation. Some studies have found elevated levels of alcohol and acetic acid in kombucha, which may be detrimental to fetal development. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid consuming kombucha during pregnancy or limit it to very small amounts.

Can kombucha be consumed while breastfeeding?

It is not known with certainty whether the components of kombucha are excreted in breast milk, so it is difficult to assess potential side effects in nursing infants. In general, we recommend avoiding kombucha during breastfeeding, replacing it with the consumption of juices either natural fruit smoothies.

In general, it is recommended to speak with a doctor before consuming kombucha while pregnant or nursing. This is especially important if you have a history of allergies or illnesses, or if you are taking any medications.

Your doctor can assess your individual situation and provide advice on the safety of kombucha during pregnancy.

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