Caffeine In Coffee and Breastfeeding
When you’re wondering What happens if you drink coffee while breastfeeding? you’re not alone. Many new mothers start to worry about their consumption of caffeine and what it could mean for their baby. Caffeine is naturally found in coffee beans and can pass through breast milk. It’s important for nursing moms to understand what caffeine does in the body and how it can affect their breastfeeding baby.
Intake of caffeine is determined by the type of coffee, the amount of coffee that it contains, and how one’s body responds. Caffeine is absorbed into our bodies through the digestive system, as soon as it reaches the small intestine it is absorbed through the intestine wall and then goes into the bloodstream. As soon as it is detected by the bloodstream, it will reach circulating breast milk and can potentially be consumed by a baby.
Caffeine is considered to be a possible resource of free radical damage to the embryo and baby and some scientists claim that it can lead to miscarrage or premature labor.1 According to a study done by the European Heart Journal , those who consume 300-400mg of caffeine a day are more likely to have babies with a lower birth weight and could be more prone to infections.2 As of yet, there is no firm evidence that suggests that drinking coffee while breastfeeding is safe or not.
However, a study conducted by the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Italy’s Catholic University in Agliella suggests that while moderate levels of caffeine do not appear to affect a baby, excessive caffeine intake could lead to higher levels of excitability and problems with sleeping in infants.3 The American Academy of Pediatrics warns that high levels of caffeine can even cause an altered heart rate and says that, while there is no “safe” level established, mothers should limit their intake to 200mg a day and consult their doctor if they are concerned.
Hidden Sources of Caffeine & Lactation Consultants
In addition to coffee, there are many sources of caffeine including tea, energy drinks, chocolates, and sodas. Nursing mothers who are concerned about their caffeine intake should be aware of these sources and try to mitigate their intake. Many experts suggest that, if possible, mothers should try to avoid caffeine altogether while breastfeeding although not all moms are able to do so. While all of these sources are likely to be found in a mother’s food, mothers should be aware that caffeine can also be present in some medicines, especially headache and cold medicines.
Expectant and new mothers may wish to speak to a lactation expert or specialist to get the best advice for their personal situation. Lactation consultants are trained to give up-to-date, reliable information about breastfeeding and can provide tailored support to new mothers. Many lactation consultants will have experience in dealing with caffeine sources and can suggest strategies for limiting caffeine intake.
Should You Drink Coffee While Breastfeeding?
The answer to this depends on the individual and their diet, lifestyle and preference. There are no studies that have unequivocally proven that coffee is harmful to breastfeeding babies, but the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limited intake of caffeine while breastfeeding. Ultimately, it is up to the mother to decide what is right for her and her baby.
If you do choose to continue to drink coffee while breastfeeding, it is best to keep the daily intake to a maximum of 200mg and to avoid other sources of caffeine such as energy drinks and chocolates. Additionally, it is best to consume the coffee earlier in the day, as caffeine can linger in a mother’s system for up to 15 hours.
Pumping & Breast Milk Alternatives
If you are worried about your caffeine intake, consider pumping and freezing excess breast milk so that you have a supply ready for your baby whenever you choose not to breastfeed or need a break from it. You could store the extra milk with your baby’s food and use it when needed. You can also feed your baby breast milk alternatives such as infant formula, although these are not as beneficial for your baby as breastfeeding.
It is important for breastfeeding mothers to know that consuming too much caffeine can have detrimental effects on their breast milk supply. Therefore, as a rule of thumb, it is best to limit your intake. However, it is ultimately up to the mother to decide what is right for her and her baby.
Coffee Substitutes
If you are breastfeeding and want to limit your daily coffee intake, there are plenty of other options available. You can try tea, decaffeinated coffee, herbal teas and caffeine-free drinks. A number of herbal teas have health benefits such as helping with wound healing and anti-inflammatory effects, so they are a great alternative for new mothers.
Of course, if you are looking for something to give you a kick then there are other beverages such as matcha tea and guarana that can boost energy levels without the addition of caffeine. Additionally, new mothers should consider their diet and make sure they are getting enough nutrients and vitamins to help with the energy levels.
Sleep And Stress Management
Finally, new mothers should focus on getting enough rest and managing stress effectively. It has been shown that inadequate sleep and excessive stress can lead to higher levels of caffeine in the bloodstream and thus more circulation of the caffeine to breast milk. Therefore, it is important for breastfeeding mothers to prioritize getting enough quality sleep, staying hydrated and managing stress.
Getting enough rest, drinking plenty of water and learning stress management techniques such as yoga or meditation can be beneficial for new mothers. Additionally, if you are in need of extra help then don’t hesitate to reach out for support, there are plenty of resources available.
