Coffee is a popular delicacy around the world with many cultures invested in its cultivation and preparation. With the introduction of coffee-on-the-go, it has become incredibly accessible and popular at every stage of life. In fact, pregnant women can often be found enjoying a warm cup of java as they embark on their journey into motherhood. But is drinking coffee during pregnancy and the first trimester safe?
Thankfully, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), pregnant women can include up to 200mg of caffeine per day into their diet without any major concern. That’s the equivalent of one 11-oz. cup of coffee from a barista, a large 16-oz. cup from a coffee shop, or a 12-oz. can of soda. However, if caffeine consumption exceeds this amount – more than double of what is considered to be a safe amount – there may be certain risks associated with it.
Several studies have suggested that high caffeine consumption during pregnancy more than 300mg daily could have potential side effects such as a lower birth weight and a higher propensity for carrying a baby to full term. Moreover, a higher risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, and difficulty with breastfeeding have also been reported in cases of high caffeine consumption.
The effects of caffeine intake during pregnancy are not fully understood and the results from studies, so far, have been inconclusive. To provide further clarity on the matter, many experts recommend that pregnant women limit the intake of caffeine to moderate amounts. As for decaffeinated coffee, there is no definitive evidence showing whether it is safe or not. Therefore, if a pregnant woman is not sure of the safety of her current caffeine consumption level, she should speak to her doctor or a qualified nutritionist.
It’s also important to understand that caffeine intake is not just limited to coffee. Many common beverages such as energy drinks and sodas contain high concentrations of caffeine as do tea and chocolate. As it is difficult to track the amount of caffeine that one consumes throughout the day, it is recommended that pregnant women opt for low-caffeine alternatives and aim to stay within the recommended daily limit.
Coffee Alternatives
Pregnant women should keep in mind that there are many non-caffeinated coffee-like alternatives that could make for a great morning beverage such as chicory root coffee, matechine tea, or herbal teas. Although these alternatives do not contain any caffeine, they do have a rich, full-bodied flavor that could easily replace the traditional morning coffee.
Chicory root coffee, for instance, is a traditional French drink made from roasted and ground chicory root. It provides a chocolatey-coffee character and has been known to be a great coffee replacement due to its robust flavor. Additionally, matechine tea is packed with nutrients that are known to provide health benefits to pregnant women. It provides a slight caramel-like flavor and is especially popular amongst pregnant women in South America. Finally, herbal teas are full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals greatly beneficial to baby’s health. There is a wide variety to choose from, some of the most popular options being peppermint, chamomile, and ginger.
Caffeine-free Supplements
If a pregnant woman is still feeling a bit sluggish without her beloved morning coffee, she can take part in caffeine-free supplement routines to provide an energy boost. Supplements such as Chromium, Magnesium and N-Acetylcysteine have been known to provide a natural energy rush in the absence of caffeine. Moreover, taking a multivitamin and a probiotic could also help pregnant women bridge the gap between vitamins and minerals that are lost during pregnancy.
When it comes to caffeine intake during pregnancy, moderation is key. Pregnant women should limit their intake to the recommended 200mg per day and opt for caffeine-free substitutes where possible. From chicory root coffee to multivitamins, there is plenty one can do to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy experience.
Giving Up the Habit
While the 200mg may not seem like much, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that pregnant women, who regularly consume caffeine, gradually give up the habit while pregnant. In essence, it’s recommended that they reduce their regular intake over the course of two weeks – as abruptly quitting caffeine intake could lead to caffeine withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and fatigue, amongst others.
Pregnant women should also be mindful of the fact that caffeine takes time to fully leave the body. Currently, the official data available stipulates that it takes six hours for half of the body’s caffeine levels to reduce. Therefore, if one has opted for the gradual reduction of caffeine, she should remember that it’s going to be a slow process and that she should expect a few days of some minor caffeine withdrawals.
Eliminating Caffeine During Pregnancy
Caffeine elimination is not always the best decision to make whilst pregnant, but it is often necessary. For those who want to take extra precautions during the first trimester, it can be a good option to eliminate caffeine altogether. Some experts recommend that pregnant women wait at least until the second trimester before reintroducing caffeine into their diet.
If one is particularly caffeine sensitive, she should opt for low-caffeine beverages such as green or white tea and cocoa. These drinks contain significantly fewer amounts of caffeine than traditional coffee and could provide just the necessary energy boost one may be seeking. Additionally, pregnant women should also try to eliminate caffeine from their pre-pregnancy vices such as soft drinks and energy drinks – especially as those contain higher caffeine concentrations than those commonly found in coffee.
Caffeine During First Trimester: The Bottom Line
Ultimately, caffeine intake during pregnancy is not a one-size-fits-all scenario. While some pregnant women continue to indulge in their coffee vice with little-to-no concern, others opt to step away or limit their intake to ensure the safest journey into motherhood. It’s essential to understand that there are risks associated with excessive caffeine intake and to always consult your doctor if any concerns arise. Getting a personalized opinion from a specialist could provide pregnant women with invaluable advice specifically tailored to their individual circumstance.
