Fertility
Can matcha cause infertility? No – and here’s what else the science says
Emma Harpham, Editor | 4 Jul 2024
Matcha is everywhere right now. From make-at-home powders to iced lattes and even brownies, it’s trending as a fun pick-me-up with added health benefits – and we’re not ashamed to admit that Emma and Jessie from TRB’s editorial team are both well and truly on the green bandwagon!
Instagram and TikTok have played a huge role in carrying the matcha drink trend. But in the last year or so, a rumor that matcha can cause infertility has been circulating on these platforms.
The Internet has a tendency to fan the flames of misinformation about women’s well-being. From intimate care myths to PCOS speculation, we’ve seen a whole lot.
So, we’re picking through the collective chatter, gathering some expert insight from the latest studies, and looking at the truth behind the claim that matcha causes infertility.
The matcha infertility TikTok rumor
If you’re on TikTok, there’s a good chance you’ve already come across a video or two made by women, drinking matcha in their car with a caption saying they’ve heard it can reduce your chances of getting pregnant.
Now, so much of what goes around on social media is undoubtedly tongue-in-cheek, and some female creators are using this claim about matcha humorously to indicate that they’re currently avoiding pregnancy.
And whilst taking everything with a pinch of salt is super important, we also understand that it’s pretty easy to consume fearmongering content, especially when we’re actively trying to conceive, or looking for answers about our fertility and wellbeing.
So, can matcha cause infertility?
Let’s get straight to it – there is no scientific evidence that matcha causes infertility.
Matcha is a finely ground form of green tea leaf that contains caffeine. Some studies claim that excessive consumption may be linked to poor IVF outcomes, but the scientific jury is still out on the link between caffeine and fertility.
Overall though, matcha is generally thought to be really low-risk, especially when consumed in moderation.
Can matcha cause miscarriage?
You might be concerned about the effects of matcha if you’re early on in pregnancy. We know, the anxiety can feel so real during this time, especially when you’ve got a positive pregnancy test off the back of a fertility journey.
There are no studies to suggest that matcha causes miscarriages.
Some have shown that a regular caffeine intake of over 200mg per day might be associated with an increased risk of loss and other pregnancy complications, so most healthcare providers will advise you not to exceed this daily limit if you’re pregnant.
For reference – a cup of matcha will typically contain 50 to 75mg of caffeine, which is less than a cup of coffee.
Is matcha bad for female hormones?
Current research shows no substantial evidence linking matcha to hormonal imbalances in women.
Some studies suggest that green tea contains phytoestrogens, which are plant compounds that can mimic estrogen in the body.
However, the levels of phytoestrogens in green tea are relatively low, and there is no strong evidence to suggest that consuming matcha in typical amounts would have a significant impact on estrogen levels.
Surprising matcha fertility benefits
In contrast to the TikTok rumors, it turns out that matcha could actually offer some benefits for your overall health. And these benefits might – albeit indirectly – support your fertility, too.
Matcha is packed with beneficial compounds, including:
- Antioxidants – Great for reducing inflammation as well as oxidative stress which can result in egg and sperm cell damage.
- Polyphenols – Beneficial for good gut bacteria, which in turn supports estrogen metabolism and happy hormones.
- L-theanine – A key amino acid known to enhance relaxation and calm. Less stress is linked to improved hormonal balance, and better mental wellbeing during a fertility journey.
Some studies also suggest that green tea can help support weight loss efforts – another lifestyle box to check if you have a high BMI and fertility is a priority.
If you have PCOS, green tea has been shown to help, from support with hormone balance and reducing testosterone to better weight management and decrease in insulin levels.
@greencaffeinematcha Replying to @Samantha12 this is why matcha dont cause infertility because it largely depends on your lifestyle and ofcourse there are also factors of genetics. #matchatutorial #matchafacts #thisiswhy #matchatok #matchainfertility #matchapowder #matchatea #matchaaddict #japanesematcha ♬ Gymnopedie no.1 / Satie [Piano solo](256275) – takai
The final word
Clinical studies do not say that matcha causes infertility. In fact, matcha has several proven benefits, both for your fertility and wellbeing.
You can enjoy these (delicious, we think) green tea drinks in moderation, as part of a balanced and nutritious diet.
So go with your gut, and if you have specific concerns or questions, always reach out to a nutritionist or fertility professional for advice tailored to you.
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