Caffeine Levels in Breast Milk- Does Coffee Affect Breastfeeding?
Coffee has become an integral part of life for many. It is a well established fact that caffeine consumption can have an adverse effect on health. For many pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, this raises the question of whether they can continue to enjoy a cup of joe while feeding their infants. In this article, let’s take a closer look at the facts and concerns surrounding the ingestion of coffee while breastfeeding.
Source of Caffeine in Coffee and its Potential Effects on Baby
Coffee contains caffeine, which is a stimulant and mild diuretic. It passes quickly into the milk and when consumed, can cause an alteration in the taste of the milk. This may cause the baby to drink milk less often or at a lower quantity. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) states that less than 300mg per day is considered to be safe for mother and baby.
When the amount that is consumed exceeds this level, there is a risk of over stimulation to the baby. This can cause the baby to be irritable, have difficulty settling, experience disturbed sleep and tolerate foods poorly. Coffee also contains other elements such as polyphenols, oils and fatty acids which can be absorbed into the baby’s system and may have adverse health effects.
Impact of other Caffeinated Drinks on Baby
Apart from coffee, there are other drinks which contain caffeine in varying amounts. Drinks such as tea and soda contain much smaller amounts of caffeine, approximately 30-65mg per cup. A couple of cups of tea or soda can tip the total caffeine content for the day to over 300mg and potentially have an adverse effect on the baby.
The AAP also advises limiting beverages such as energy drinks, which contain high amounts of caffeine. Energy drinks contain several stimulants such as guarana, taurine and B-vitamins which can have a stimulating effect on the baby and contribute to health issues such as high blood pressure, fatigue or restlessness.
Other Considerations for Breastfeeding Mothers
Due to the risk of overstimulation and potent chemicals which may pass through the mother’s system, breastfeeding mothers should take precautionary steps to protect their infants. Firstly, it is best to stick to the recommended limit of 300mg of caffeine per day. Secondly, the mother can adjust her diet by replacing coffee with other beverages and foods which contain much lower levels of caffeine. Finally, coffee should not be consumed in an exclusively breastfeeding relationship.
Alternatives to Caffeine for Nursing Moms
Nursing moms may choose to look for alternate sources of nutrition and stimulation. Options such as herbal teas, sparkling water and skimmed milk may provide an additional source of nutrition and hydration. These fluids may also contain micro nutrients which may be beneficial for the baby.
Can Coffee Be Used to Aid Lactation?
Some folk remedies suggest that drinking coffee can enhance the mother’s milk supply and act as a stimulant which can boost the energy of a nursing mother. While there may be some truth in this, any perceived benefit of drinking coffee is likely to be outweighed by the stress and anxiety associated with overstimulation in the baby.
Bottom Line
The AAP advises that breastfeeding mothers should follow the recommended limits of caffeine consumption. The safest choice is to stick to decaffeinated alternatives or herbal teas and avoid energy drinks or beverages that may contain a higher caffeine content. Breastfeeding mothers should also take into consideration other medically recommended guidelines and advice given by their doctors or certified lactation consultants.
Scientific Evidence on the Benefits of Caffeine Consumption during Pregnancy and Lactation
There has been research into caffeine consumption during pregnancy and lactation and its effects on infants. Studies report that regular, moderate caffeine consumption during pregnancy does not seem to have any adverse effects on birth outcomes. Moderate consumption during lactation does not seem to affect neonatal behavior or neurobehavioral development. However, limiting caffeine intake to 300mg per day is still advised in view of potential adverse effects such as restlessness and irritability in babies consuming breast milk.
Nursing Mothers and Caffeine Consumption – An Individual Choice
There is no definitive answer to whether breastfeeding mothers should or should not consume coffee.It is an individual choice and mothers should consider their own situation, nutrition and lifestyle.It is important to bear in mind that while caffeine may provide a pick me up and a sense of satisfaction, it can have adverse effects on the baby if consumed in excess.
Measures to Take if Caffeine is Consumed While Breastfeeding
If coffee is consumed while breastfeeding, there are some general tips which can help to reduce the adverse effects. Firstly, it is advisable to avoid consuming more than 300mg of caffeine per day; this amounts to about two 8oz cups of coffee. Secondly, mothers should also take care to monitor the frequency of their coffee consumption and ensure that one cup of coffee does not result in an accumulation of caffeine. Thirdly,it is recommended that mothers should limit other forms of caffeine from their diets and ensure that their sources of hydration and nutrition are balanced.
Timing of Caffeine Intake While Breastfeeding
When it comes to caffeine intake while breastfeeding, timing is key. If a mother consumes coffee, it is best to wait between 2 to 3 hours before breastfeeding her baby. This gives the body enough time to process the caffeine and reduce the amount of caffeine passing into the baby’s system.
How Can Coffee Intake Affect a Nursing Mother?
In some cases, caffeine can exacerbate existing medical conditions such as acid reflux and sleep apnea, as well as presenting a higher risk of developing hypertension, if it is consumed in large amounts. It can also cause jichness and restlessness for nursing mothers, who may be seeking the energy pick up that coffee can provide.
Maintaining a Balanced Diet While Breastfeeding
One of the most important things to consider while pregnant and lactating is maintaining a balanced diet.It is important to consume a range of foods and beverages that are healthy and nutritious.Coffee should only be consumed as part of a balanced diet, and should be limited.
