Can pregnant women drink buckwheat tea?

Feb 21, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I have a friend who is pregnant and really wants to drink buckwheat tea, but we are unsure whether buckwheat tea has any effect on the fetus. May I ask if pregnant women can drink buckwheat tea?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu

Pregnant women can usually consume moderate amounts of buckwheat tea.

Buckwheat tea is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, which are beneficial to both pregnant women and the fetus. The B-vitamin complex participates in the pregnant woman's metabolism, helping to efficiently convert and absorb nutrients. Mineral elements can help prevent anemia during pregnancy and meet the fetus's demand for trace elements. In addition, the dietary fiber in buckwheat tea aids digestion and helps prevent constipation, while the natural alkaloids help lower blood glucose levels.

Although buckwheat tea is nutritious, pregnant women should not consume excessive amounts. Initially, it is recommended to start with 1–2 small cups per day and observe the body's reaction. If there are no adverse effects, consumption should not exceed 3–4 cups daily thereafter. Excessive intake may increase the metabolic burden on the kidneys and disrupt the body's water and electrolyte balance. Moreover, pregnant women with cold deficiency of the spleen and stomach should consume buckwheat tea cautiously, as its cold nature may worsen the condition, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Pregnant women should choose buckwheat tea from reputable brands sold through legitimate channels, and carefully check the production information and quality inspection labels on the product packaging to avoid inferior products that may contain harmful substances, which could endanger the health of both mother and baby.