How Coffee Affects Breast Milk
It is recommended that pregnant women and nursing mothers limit their caffeine intake. That’s because while drinking coffee while breastfeeding can be ok in moderation, too much can lead to health risks and side effects. Caffeine can pass through breastmilk, which means it can reach your baby directly. Therefore, keeping within the recommended amount of caffeine is essential.
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), small amounts of caffeine are acceptable while breastfeeding. Up to 300 milligrams per day of caffeine (the equivalent of two to three 8-ounce cups of coffee) is considered safe for both mother and baby. Additionally, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) states that babies can be safely breastfed even if their mother has had caffeine recently.
While it might seem harmless to have a few cups of coffee a day, it is important to note that caffeine does accumulates in our bodies. For instance, a cup of coffee can stay in your bloodstream for up to 6-12 hours. Therefore, if you drink one cup of coffee a day, chances are that caffeine levels in your body can remain high for long periods of time, which can affect your baby if you are breastfeeding.
Side Effects of Caffeine Intake While Breastfeeding
It is well documented that high levels of caffeine intake can lead to adverse effects in both adult and baby. These include:
- Breastfeeding difficulty – Too much caffeine in the breastmilk can make it difficult for the baby to latch on, resulting in fewer feedings, poor weight gain and lower milk production.
- Sleep disturbances – Caffeine can enter a baby’s system through breastmilk, which can cause poor sleep patterns and disturb the quality of an infant’s sleep.
- Babies being overly active – Too much caffeine can make your baby jittery and overly active. As caffeine is a stimulant, it can make your baby feel energetic for longer periods of time.
- Dehydration – Too much caffeine can also make your baby dehydrated. This is because caffeine is a diuretic, meaning it can make your baby lose water through urine more quickly.
- Increased chance of colic –Caffeine in breastmilk can also increase the chances of your baby developing colic.
How to Reduce Intake of Coffee While Breastfeeding
Since high levels of caffeine can affect the baby, breastfeeding mothers should limit the amount of caffeine they drink. Here are some tips to reduce your intake of caffeine while breastfeeding:
- Drink decaffeinated coffee – Choose decaffeinated coffee instead of caffeinated coffee. You can still enjoy the same taste without caffeine.
- Drink coffee wisely – If you really cannot give up caffeinated coffee, try to drink it just after a feeding. This gives the caffeine time to leave your baby’s system before the next feeding.
- Limit intake – limit your caffeine intake to two cups of coffee or tea a day and avoid other caffeinated beverages like soda or energy drinks.
- Avoid other sources of caffeine – Caffeine can also be found in chocolate, energy bars, certain medicines, and certain beverages. Avoid consuming these when breastfeeding.
Effects of Caffeine Intake on Milk Supply
Though caffeine intake is generally safe for breastfeeding mothers in moderation, it is important to know that it can have a negative effect on milk supply. Caffeine can reduce milk production and affect milk composition. Studies have found that caffeine can reduce milk production by up toone third. Research also suggests that a high intake of caffeine can cause milk production to decrease more slowly than normal.
In addition, some babies are more vulnerable and sensitive to the effects of caffeine. Since the combination of coffee and milk can interfere with the baby’s milk absorption process, mothers should reduce their coffee intake when breastfeeding.
Using Alternatives Instead of Coffee
It is best to skip the coffee while breastfeeding if possible. Instead, try to incorporate other drinks, such as herbal tea, fruit juice, water, or milk into your diet. A moderate amount of sleep and rest is also important to maintain a healthy milk production.
Watching the Intake
It is good to keep an eye on your caffeine intake when breastfeeding. Caffeine can be found in many types of foods and beverages, so it is important to pay attention to what you are consuming. If you consume more than one cup of coffee or other caffeinated beverages a day, try cutting back and see if it has a positive effect.
Taking Supplements
Consulting your healthcare provider before taking any supplements is important. Supplements like folic acid and iron can be beneficial in breastfeeding mothers, especially if you have an iron deficiency. Ensure to speak with your doctor and understand what is safe while breastfeeding.
Staying Hydrated
Staying hydrated is important for both mother and baby. Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water and juice is advisable. Instead of relying on coffee to boost energy levels, mothers can take short breaks and get some rest when feeling fatigued.
Seeking Expert Advice
It is always beneficial to seek expert advice if you have any doubts or concerns. Your doctor or lactation consultant can help you with understanding how much coffee is safe to consume while breastfeeding and what foods and beverages should be avoided.
