Can drinking coffee while breastfeeding affect the baby? This age-old question still perplexes parents who don’t fully understand the implications of what they’re putting into their body. Coffee has become a widely consumed and accepted beverage, but it contains the natural stimulant caffeine, and nursing mothers are right to be concerned about their baby’s health. Caffeine can enter the mother’s bloodstream and be passed along to the baby through breast milk, and research has highlighted both potential pros and cons from consumption.
Excessive caffeine consumption has been associated with adverse effects in infants, including poor sleeping patterns and fussiness. However, some experts believe that moderate consumption can produce a balanced stimulatory effect on the newborn, without the risks that come with high levels of caffeine. Guidelines inevitably vary but most health organizations recommend not exceeding the equivalent of two to three cups of coffee daily during lactation.
Analysis from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) of a 2014 study revealed that “the safe levels of coffee consumption is not easily generalized, as it will also depend on the mother’s age and the components of her diet”. Although there is no definitive answer, it stands to reason that caffeine amounts should be reduced if the mother notices symptoms such as greater irritability, fussiness, or difficulty sleeping in her baby.
A 2016 Australian study on the topic highlighted the importance of education and awareness when it comes to caffeine consumption. The authors concluded that “information should be provided to women regarding the potential risks and benefits associated with their intake of caffeine while breastfeeding
It’s important to note that while certain problems can be associated with even small levels of caffeine, it can also provide some benefits. A 2015 study from the Association of American Physicians and Surgeons showed that caffeine can potentially improve the quality of breast milk itself. The study looked at levels of 3 different caffeine biomarkers in the breast milk of hundreds of women, some coffee drinkers and some non-drinkers.
The coffee drinkers reported lower levels of the biomarker uracil, which is a cancer-causing compound found in the spoilage of some animal proteins. This could be potentially advantageous for mothers who want to provide their baby with a healthy form of nutrition. Although these findings need further research and investigation, it appears that coffee may improve nursing mothers’ milk in overall quality, making it healthier for the baby.
Of course, not all mothers have the same issues, sensitivities, and medical histories, nor do they always have the same nutritional needs. This means that any health-related advice should be taken with a certain level of caution. If in doubt, they should consult their local medical practitioner to discuss the most appropriate course of action. They may also benefit from speaking with other mothers who have taken different approaches in their breastfeeding experience.
Balance is Key to Healthy Consumption
Although research provides some valuable insights, balanced consumption is key when it comes to partaking in caffeine-based drinks while breastfeeding. While an occasional cup of coffee or tea is probably fine for most women, a good rule of thumb is to keep caffeine levels to a minimum. If a mother finds that their baby’s behavior is affected in a negative way, they should reconsider any beverages containing caffeine.
It’s also worth noting that the effects of caffeine can be fairly speedy, taking as little as one to two hours to enter the milk supply. As such, the heaviest doses should be timed into the morning and early afternoon hours, with lighter in-takes at night. This allows the baby to get the stimulating benefits during the day, while minimizing any potential disturbances at night. By implementing this approach with moderation, most mothers should be able to continue drinking coffee without too much concern.
It is also important to consider the other effects of caffeine on a mother’s lifestyle. Caffeine has a stimulatory effect that lasts for around four to six hours. By keeping intake to the day time, mothers can avoid the feeling of over-stimulation which can lead to insomnia or anxiety. Additionally, moderate caffeine consumption can help in the prevention of postpartum depression, as its caffeine content can provide those with a much-needed mood boost.
Caffeine Alternatives
Of course, there are various caffeine-free alternatives to drinking coffee while breastfeeding, with some being particularly beneficial. For instance, certain herbal teas can provide a mother with added energy. Some of the best ones include raspberry leaf, oatstraw, and skullcap. Even in moderation, these teas can effortless help promote the production of breast milk, as well as aiding in the mother’s overall hydration.
Naturally, other alternatives include healthy doses of fruits and veggies, which can increase a mother’s energy level without the using stimulants. Another popular option for nursing mothers is the coca leaf originated tea mate. This herbal beverage is widely consumed throughout South America and is touted as having several positive effects for both mother and baby alike.
Finally, some ultra-premium teas are made from all-natural ingredients, like herbs and roots. These teas are typically caffeine-free and boast an abundance of antioxidants which can help with fatigue and overall energy levels. For mothers looking to keep it natural, organic beverages like these can be a great transition away from coffee.
Risks
Although the risks associated with coffee consumption while breastfeeding seem minor, there are some caveats. The factor most worth considering is dehydration, which can‘t be underestimated with nursing mothers. Breastfeeding itself can induce some feelings of dehydration, and coffee or any other caffeine source will only exacerbate this. For this reason, mothers should be sure to replenish their bodies with plenty of water in order to avoid any health and functionality issues.
Additionally, caffeine may interact with certain medications and other common foods. For example, drinking coffee can reduce the effectiveness of folic acid, which is found in many prenatal vitamins. Similarly, caffeine intake can interfere with iron absorption, and since many women are slightly iron deficient during breastfeeding, this could potentially be a cause for concern.
In general, these risks can be avoided by consulting a physician and taking the above warnings into account. Most women consume caffeine in one form or another every day, and it is possible to do so while breastfeeding without any adverse effects, provided that the right precautions are taken.
Conclusion
In conclusion, drinking coffee while breastfeeding can be a safe experience, provided that the proper measures are taken. Mothers should pay close attention to their bodies, their babies, and the contextual advice offered by medical experts, in order to make the best decisions regarding their own health and that of their newborn.
