Kombucha is known for its health benefits, but it is a fermented tea containing small amounts of alcohol and caffeine. Though there isn’t a lot of data on the potential risks of drinking kombucha while breastfeeding, drinking it in moderation is probably alright.
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How Much Kombucha Can You Drink While Breastfeeding?
There is no fundamental guideline when it comes to how much kombucha you can drink while breastfeeding, but it has been said that drinking around 4 fl oz of kombucha can be safe and effective for breastfeeding mothers.
When considering these factors, some breastfeeding women may decide to steer clear. However, there are some precautions you can take as a breastfeeding mom if you want to enjoy an occasional kombucha, such as:
- Avoid home-brewed kombucha, as it isn’t regulated, and there is no natural way to know the levels of alcohol and the amount of caffeine it contains.
- Choose pasteurized kombucha instead of raw kombucha. While you won’t receive all of the good bacteria, you won’t risk exposure to harmful bacteria.
- Always read the label of store-bought booch to check for higher caffeine and alcohol content. Also, you will want to avoid alcoholic versions (hard kombucha), as they have become popular in recent years.
- Be sure to stay hydrated. Nursing mothers must always stay hydrated, especially when drinking kombucha. To ensure hydration, mix a few ounces of kombucha with water and enjoy all the benefits without running the risk of dehydration.
- If you are unsure whether it is safe to drink, check with your GP or lactation specialist first.
The amount is at your discretion if you drink kombucha while breastfeeding. However, we don’t recommend drinking more than a few ounces at a time. Also, watch for any signs of adverse side effects in your baby.
Breastfeeding or not, the CDC doesn’t recommend adults drink more than 12 ounces of kombucha daily.
How Much Caffeine Is in Kombucha?
Though it is considered safe to drink caffeine while nursing, it is advised to watch your caffeine intake and refrain from consuming too much. Typically, there are about 15mg of caffeine in a 14 oz bottle of kombucha.
The amount of caffeine depends heavily on the type of tea used. Black tea has more caffeine than green tea. However, the amount is still minimal in most store-bought kombuchas and, according to most medical advice, should not be an issue for breastfeeding mothers.
If you are worried about the caffeine content in kombucha, you may consider looking for a caffeine-free kombucha. They aren’t always easy to come by, but there are certain options you can find online or in stores.
Does All Kombucha Contain Alcohol?
Kombucha, because it is fermented, naturally contains alcohol. However, the amount of alcohol contained in kombucha is minimal. Because the FDA regulates it, commercial kombucha contains less than 0.5% alcohol.
An ABV of 0.5% or lower is considered non-alcoholic. However, it is difficult for home brewers to determine the ABV of their brew. Most home-brewed kombuchas contain between 1% and 2.5% depending on the fermentation process and length.
If your body does not metabolize alcohol quickly, it is possible that a minimal amount of alcohol could be passed to your baby through breast milk.
Can You Drink Kombucha While Pregnant?
Along with breastfeeding women, pregnant women must be aware of caffeine intake and alcohol consumption. However, as kombucha does not contain much caffeine or alcohol, drinking it in moderation during pregnancy may be safe.
Of course, taking the same precautions as mentioned before for breastfeeding moms is essential, as you don’t want to take any risks during your pregnancy. Keeping your consumption to four ounces or less at a time is advised, but this is up to you and your doctor’s discretion.
Are There Any Health Benefits of Drinking Kombucha Tea While Breastfeeding or Pregnant?
Raw kombucha is known for the probiotics it contains. Probiotics can help support gut health and be good for your immune system. This is no different for breastfeeding and pregnant moms. Generally speaking, women who drink kombucha while breastfeeding or pregnant will receive the same health benefits as anyone who drinks it.
Of course, there are some risk factors to consider when deciding whether or not the risk is worth the reward, including the following:
- Alcohol content
- Caffeine content
- Many kombucha teas are unpasteurized
- It can contain harmful bacteria
Can You Drink Fermented Drinks While Breastfeeding?
All fermented foods and drinks, like kimchi, kefir, sauerkraut, vinegar, kombucha, etc., contain some alcohol. Typically, mothers want to avoid the consumption of alcohol while breastfeeding, but the percentage of alcohol in fermented food and drinks is usually relatively low.
Consuming fermented food and drinks while breastfeeding is a personal choice you and your healthcare provider should make together. If consumed in moderation, there is no evidence that these foods will harm the mother or the baby.