During the breastfeeding period, every drink a mother considers often comes with an important question: is it safe for the baby or not? Among the increasingly popular beverages today is matcha tea, known for its unique taste and widely praised health benefits.However, despite its advantages, an important question arises for breastfeeding mothers: is matcha tea safe during breastfeeding? And could it affect the baby because of its caffeine content?In this article from Delly Medical, we will explore the full truth—its potential benefits, possible risks, and the most important tips that can help you consume it safely if you wish to include it in your daily routine during breastfeeding.

❓ Is matcha tea safe during breastfeeding?
✔️ Yes, it can be consumed safely in very small amounts during breastfeeding, but only with moderation. This is because it contains caffeine, which can pass into breast milk and may affect the baby.

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❓ Does matcha tea reduce breast milk production?
⚠️ Generally, it does not significantly reduce milk supply. However, excessive caffeine intake may lead in some women to a slight decrease in milk production.

 Therefore, it is recommended to limit consumption to one cup per day only.

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❓ Does the caffeine in matcha affect the baby?
✔️ Yes, if consumed in large amounts. Possible effects include:

• Sleep disturbances
• Increased irritability or restlessness
• Mild digestive discomfort or colic

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❓ What is the safe amount of matcha for breastfeeding mothers?
✔️ The safe limit is:

• One cup per day or less

 It is better to reduce intake if the baby shows sensitivity to caffeine.

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❓ What is the best time to drink matcha during breastfeeding?
⏰ The best times are:

• Immediately after breastfeeding
• Early in the morning

❌ It is better to avoid it:

• Right before feeding
• At night

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❓ Is matcha better than coffee for breastfeeding mothers?
✔️ Yes, in many cases it is considered a better option because:

• It contains less caffeine than coffee
• It includes L-theanine, which promotes relaxation and reduces caffeine jitters

 However, it still contains caffeine, so moderation is essential.

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❓ Can I drink matcha while breastfeeding?
✔️ Yes, but only in limited amounts, while closely observing the baby’s reaction to any changes.

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❓ What is the best type of matcha for breastfeeding mothers?
✔️ It is recommended to choose:

• Organic matcha
• Free from additives and sugar
• High-quality grades such as Ceremonial or Premium

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❓ What symptoms require stopping matcha consumption?
 Stop immediately if the baby shows:

• Sleep disturbances or insomnia
• Excessive crying or irritability
• Digestive discomfort or colic

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❓ Can matcha increase a baby’s activity or cause hyperactivity?
⚠️ Yes, in some caffeine-sensitive babies. Symptoms may include:

• Insomnia
• Increased movement
• Noticeable irritability

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❓ Can matcha be consumed daily during breastfeeding?
✔️ It can be consumed, but daily regular intake is not strongly recommended.

 Ideally:

• 3–4 times per week
• Or based on the baby’s tolerance

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❓ Does matcha worsen infant colic?
⚠️ It may increase colic in some infants due to caffeine content, which can mildly affect digestion.

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❓ Does matcha cause dehydration during breastfeeding?
✔️ Indirectly, yes. It has a mild diuretic effect, so it is important to increase water intake to stay hydrated.

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❓ Is it safe to drink matcha at night while breastfeeding?
❌ Not recommended, because caffeine may cause:

• Baby sleep disturbances
• Difficulty sleeping for the mother

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❓ Does matcha affect iron levels after childbirth?
⚠️ Yes, it may reduce iron absorption, which is important to consider especially for mothers who suffer from postpartum anemia.

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❓ Does matcha prepared with milk differ from matcha with water?
✔️ Yes, there is a difference:

• With milk: gentler on the stomach and slower caffeine absorption
• With water: lower calories but faster caffeine effect

❓ Can matcha be replaced if the mother notices effects on the baby?
✔️ Absolutely. It can be replaced with safe caffeine-free alternatives such as:

• Chamomile tea
• Anise tea
• Caraway tea

 These drinks are soothing for the digestive system and generally safe during breastfeeding.

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❓ Does matcha help with postpartum weight loss?
✔️ It may have a mild effect, as it can slightly increase metabolism.
However, it should not be relied on alone. It must be part of a healthy diet and an active lifestyle.

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 The Origin of Matcha Tea

Although many people associate matcha with Japan, its origins actually trace back to China 

 Early beginnings in China

Matcha first appeared in China during the 12th century, when Buddhist monks ground green tea leaves into a fine powder. They consumed it for:

• Enhancing focus during meditation
• Achieving calm, steady energy without nervous stimulation

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 Its arrival in Japan

Matcha was later introduced to Japan by a Buddhist monk named Eisai.
Over time, the Japanese refined its cultivation and preparation methods, shaping it into the form known today.

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 Matcha in Japanese culture

Matcha became an essential part of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony known as Chanoyu, where preparation and presentation are treated with great precision and respect.

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 Why is matcha special?

Matcha is unique because:

• Tea leaves are shade-grown before harvest, increasing nutrients
• The entire leaf is ground into a fine powder
• You consume the whole leaf, not just an infusion like regular tea

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 Nutritional Content of Matcha Tea

Matcha is not just a drink—it is a concentrated powder made from whole green tea leaves, making it far richer in nutrients than regular green tea.

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 1. Antioxidants

The most important are catechins, especially EGCG

Benefits:

• Strengthening the immune system
• Reducing inflammation
• Protecting cells from damage

 Matcha is one of the richest sources of antioxidants among all green teas.

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⚡ 2. Caffeine

Matcha contains a moderate amount of caffeine—less than coffee but more than regular green tea.

Effects:

• Provides steady energy
• Improves focus without sudden energy crashes

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 3. L-Theanine

A unique amino acid found in matcha

Benefits:

• Promotes relaxation
• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Improves mental focus and alertness

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 4. Vitamins

Matcha contains several important vitamins, including:

• Vitamin A: skin and immune health
• Vitamin C: powerful antioxidant
• Vitamin E: protects cells
• Vitamin K: supports bones and blood clotting

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 5. Minerals

Includes essential minerals such as:

• Iron: supports blood formation
• Calcium: for bones and teeth
• Potassium: regulates blood pressure
• Magnesium: supports muscles and nerves
• Zinc: boosts immunity

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 6. Fiber

Contains a small amount of dietary fiber:

• Supports digestion
• Promotes gut health

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 7. Chlorophyll

Gives matcha its deep green color

Benefits:

• Supports detoxification processes
• Helps liver function

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 Approximate nutritional value (per cup)

• Calories: 5–10
• Caffeine: 30–70 mg
• Antioxidants: very high

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 Benefits of Matcha for Breastfeeding Mothers

Matcha has become popular, but during breastfeeding it should be consumed carefully due to its caffeine content, which can pass into breast milk.

However, in small amounts, it may offer some benefits:

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 1. Rich in antioxidants

Matcha contains high levels of catechins (Catechins), powerful antioxidants.

Benefits:

• Supporting immune health
• Reducing inflammation
• Protecting body cells from damage

 2. Improving mood

Matcha contains L-Theanine, an amino acid that helps calm the nervous system.

Benefits:

• Reducing stress and anxiety after childbirth
• Promoting relaxation
• Improving focus without nervous tension

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⚡ 3. Mild energy boost

Thanks to its natural caffeine content:

It may help with:

• Increasing light energy levels
• Reducing fatigue
• Improving focus while caring for the baby

 Without causing a sudden “energy crash” like some other drinks.

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 4. Mild metabolism support

Matcha may contribute to:

• Slightly increasing calorie burning
• Supporting postpartum weight recovery when combined with a healthy lifestyle

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⚠️ Important note for breastfeeding mothers

Despite its benefits:

• Caffeine can pass into breast milk
• Excess intake may cause sleep disturbances or colic in the baby

Therefore, moderation is essential.

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 Types of Matcha suitable for breastfeeding mothers

 1. Ceremonial Grade Matcha

• Highest quality
• Smooth taste with low bitterness
• Rich in antioxidants

✔️ Suitable in very small amounts for breastfeeding mothers

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 2. Culinary Grade Matcha

• Lower quality
• More bitter taste
• Often used in desserts

⚠️ Not preferred due to possible additives or sugar

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 3. Organic Matcha

• Free from pesticides
• 100% pure

✔️ A very good and relatively safe option

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❄️ 4. Decaffeinated Matcha

• Contains reduced caffeine

✔️ May be suitable if the baby is sensitive to caffeine

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⚠️ Important:
All matcha types naturally contain caffeine because they come from the green tea plant.

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⚠️ Side effects of matcha for breastfeeding mothers

Although matcha has benefits, excessive intake during breastfeeding may cause side effects due to caffeine and active compounds.

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1. Caffeine transfer to the baby

Matcha contains caffeine that can pass into breast milk.

Possible effects on the baby:

• Sleep disturbances
• Increased irritability and crying
• Colic and digestive discomfort

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2. Sleep disruption

• May affect the mother’s sleep quality
• May disturb the baby’s sleep pattern
• Can indirectly affect feeding routines

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3. Reduced iron absorption

Matcha compounds may reduce iron absorption.

Possible result:

• Anemia
• Fatigue and weakness

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4. Possible reduction in milk supply

In some cases, excessive caffeine intake may lead to:

• Slight decrease in breast milk production

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5. Digestive issues

• Stomach acidity
• Mild gastric irritation
• Especially when taken on an empty stomach

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6. Increased heart rate and anxiety

Due to caffeine:

• Heart palpitations
• Increased stress or nervousness

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 How to prepare matcha for breastfeeding mothers

 1. Basic method (classic matcha)

Ingredients:

• ¼–½ teaspoon matcha
• 1 cup warm water (70–80°C)

Method:

• Add matcha to a cup
• Mix with a small amount of warm water
• Stir well until dissolved
• Add remaining water

✔️ Light and simple option

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 2. Matcha latte (gentler option)

Ingredients:

• ¼ teaspoon matcha
• Warm water
• Milk

Method:

• Dissolve matcha in water
• Add warm milk
• Mix well

✔️ Gentler on the stomach and less bitter

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❄️ 3. Iced matcha

Ingredients:

• ¼ teaspoon matcha
• Warm water for dissolving
• Cold water + ice

Method:

• Dissolve matcha in warm water
• Pour over ice
• Add cold water and mix

✔️ Refreshing drink
⚠️ Avoid if sensitive to colic

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 4. Matcha with honey

Ingredients:

• ¼ teaspoon matcha
• Warm water
• Natural honey

✔️ Healthy alternative to sugar

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 Additional preparation methods

1. Traditional method

• ½ teaspoon matcha
• 60–100 ml hot water (80–85°C)
• Whisk until light foam forms

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2. Matcha latte

• ½ teaspoon matcha
• Hot water
• 200 ml milk
• Optional sweetener

✔️ Creamy texture and milder taste

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3. Iced matcha variation

• Mix with hot water first
• Then add ice and cold water or milk

✔️ Ideal for hot weather

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4. Adding to smoothies

• Add ½ teaspoon to smoothies (banana, spinach, etc.)

✔️ Increases nutritional value and energy

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 General tips

• Do not exceed one cup per day
• Best time: morning or after breastfeeding
• Honey can be added for taste
• Best taken before physical activity for energy boost

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 Tips to maximize benefits safely

⏰ 1. Proper timing

Best after breastfeeding or in the morning/early afternoon
✔️ Reduces caffeine transfer to the baby

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 2. Low dosage

• ¼ to ½ teaspoon per day only

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 3. Drink enough water

• Helps hydration
• Supports milk production

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 4. Avoid on an empty stomach

• Take at least 1 hour after meals

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 5. Add milk if needed

• Reduces caffeine absorption speed
• Improves taste

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 6. Use natural sweeteners

• Prefer honey over refined sugar

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 7. Calm environment

• Enhances L-Theanine relaxing effects

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 8. Monitor the baby

Stop or reduce if the baby shows:

• Poor sleep
• Irritability
• Colic

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 9. Avoid processed products

• Choose pure 100% matcha
• Avoid flavored or sweetened versions