Is it safe to drink mate when pregnant?
Quick Answer
It’s generally advised to limit consumption.
Mate contains caffeine, which should be limited during pregnancy. High caffeine intake may increase the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, low birth weight, and developmental delay. However, moderate consumption is generally considered safe.
What Is It?
Mate is a traditional South American caffeine-rich infused drink. It is made by soaking dried leaves from the Yerba mate plant in hot water.
Why It Can Be Risky
While mate is a popular beverage, it does contain caffeine, which can pose risks during pregnancy.
- Increased risk of miscarriage
- Premature birth
- Low birth weight
- Developmental delay
Safe Method?
If you choose to drink mate while pregnant, it’s best to limit your intake to a moderate level. This is typically defined as less than 200 mg of caffeine per day, or about one 12-ounce cup of mate.
Safe Alternatives
If you’re looking for a caffeine-free alternative to mate, consider herbal teas such as chamomile or peppermint. Always check the ingredients to ensure they’re safe for pregnancy.