Yes, in moderation. One to two Shinzo stick packs per day (around 65 to 130mg of caffeine total) falls well within the 200mg daily limit recommended by most health organizations for pregnant individuals. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Pregnancy brings a heightened awareness of everything that goes into your body, and rightfully so. If matcha has been part of your daily routine, it is natural to wonder whether it is safe to continue. Here is a balanced look at what you should know.
Caffeine and Pregnancy
The primary concern with matcha during pregnancy is its caffeine content. Most health organizations, including the World Health Organization, recommend that pregnant individuals limit caffeine intake to under 200mg per day. A Shinzo Matcha stick pack contains 3 grams of matcha and around 65mg of caffeine, which is well within the safe range if consumed in moderation and if you are mindful of caffeine from other sources in your diet.
L-Theanine Considerations
L-theanine has not been studied extensively in pregnant populations, so current recommendations err on the side of caution regarding high-dose supplements. The amounts present in a standard serving of matcha tea are modest and generally considered safe, but speaking with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance is always the right call.
Antioxidants Are a Benefit
On the positive side, matcha's antioxidants and micronutrients, including folate, vitamins C and A, and trace minerals, offer genuine nutritional value. The anti-inflammatory properties of matcha may also be helpful during the physical demands of pregnancy.
What to Avoid
High-dose matcha supplements or concentrated matcha extracts are best avoided during pregnancy. These deliver far more catechins than a simple cup of tea and have not been studied thoroughly enough for safety in this context.
The takeaway: one to two servings of Shinzo Matcha per day, enjoyed as a tea or latte, is generally considered safe during pregnancy. But always check with your healthcare provider to make the best choice for your individual situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much matcha is safe during pregnancy?
One to two servings per day is generally considered safe, providing 40 to 140mg of caffeine. This is within the 200mg daily limit recommended by the WHO and most health organizations for pregnant individuals.
Can matcha cause miscarriage?
There is no evidence that moderate matcha consumption causes miscarriage. The concern with matcha during pregnancy is caffeine intake, and one to two servings per day stays well within established safe limits. Consult your healthcare provider for personal guidance.
Is L-theanine in matcha safe during pregnancy?
L-theanine in the amounts found in a regular serving of matcha tea is generally considered safe. High-dose L-theanine supplements are less studied and best avoided during pregnancy as a precaution.
What drinks should I avoid during pregnancy?
Avoid drinks with high caffeine levels (energy drinks, triple espressos), alcohol, unpasteurized juices, and high-dose herbal supplements. Moderate matcha (one to two servings daily) is generally safe, but always discuss with your healthcare provider.
Sources
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Committee Opinion No. 462: Moderate caffeine consumption during pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol. 2010;116(2 Pt 1):467-468. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20664420/
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. How much coffee can I drink while I’m pregnant? Available at: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/experts-and-stories/ask-acog/how-much-coffee-can-i-drink-while-pregnant
- Qian J, Chen Q, Ward SM, Duan E, Zhang Y. Impacts of Caffeine during Pregnancy. Trends Endocrinol Metab. 2020;31(3):218-227. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7035149/
- Kochman J, Jakubczyk K, Antoniewicz J, Mruk H, Janda K. Health Benefits and Chemical Composition of Matcha Green Tea: A Review. Molecules. 2020;26(1):85. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7796401/
Disclaimer: The statements in this blog post have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any dietary or lifestyle changes.