Background
Coffee and breastfeeding are two activities that expectant mothers often engage in, however the effect of coffee consumption while breastfeeding is not widely known. Coffee contains caffeine and other compounds which are passed into breast milk and can be ingested by babies when they are breastfed. This can cause health issues, including gas and stomach upset. This article will explore the relationship between coffee and gas in breastfeeding babies, looking at the research, the effects of caffeine in breast milk, and how to identify any reactions.
Understanding the Research
Studies into coffee and breastfeeding have not found any significant differences in gas or discomfort between babies who have been exposed to caffeine in breast milk and those who have not. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended that women who are breastfeeding should avoid drinking coffee, and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends reducing caffeine intake to less than 300 mg a day. However, infants who are exposed to more than this in breast milk are unlikely to have any lasting health problems.
Effects of Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant and can affect how babies process proteins, sugars, and starches. This can cause digestive issues such as gas and discomfort. Caffeine is broken down differently in babies than in adults, so they can be affected by lower levels. Some studies suggest that exposure to caffeine in breast milk can cause babies to be more wakeful or irritable, and can disrupt their sleeping patterns.
Identifying Reactions
Babies may not exhibit any overt reaction to the presence of caffeine in the breast milk. If a mother suspects that the baby is experiencing discomfort due to the mother’s caffeine consumption, she can keep a journal to track the baby’s eating, sleeping and general behavior. If any changes are noted, such as extra gas or fussiness, she can then stop drinking coffee for a short period of time to see if these changes are resolved. This can help determine if the caffeine is causing the changes.
What Experts Say
Experts suggest that expecting mothers can still enjoy their daily cup of coffee while breastfeeding, but should keep it moderate. The AAP recommends drinking no more than two 8 oz. cups of coffee per day. This can help maintain caffeine levels in the breast milk at safe levels while still providing the mother with her daily dose of caffeine.
Tips On Limiting Consumption
There are several ways that mothers can limit their caffeine consumption while breastfeeding. Some of these include limiting caffeine to earlier in the day and avoiding any beverages with added caffeine. For example, many sodas and energy drinks have high caffeine concentrations, and should be avoided. Additionally, herbal teas and decaffeinated coffees can be enjoyed in moderation, as these contain significantly less caffeine.
Research on Alternatives
Although caffeine is passed into breast milk and can cause discomfort in baby, there is research that shows that alternatives such as green tea or herbal teas can be consumed without affecting the baby adversely. theanine, an amino acid found in green tea, can act as a calming agent and can be beneficial to both mother and baby. Additionally, it is important to remember that some babies may not be affected by moderate amounts of caffeine in breast milk, while others may be more sensitive.
Effects of Long-Term Caffeine Intake
Although there is no clear evidence of any long-term effects of caffeine on baby, there are some studies that have suggested a higher risk of irritability in infants. Additionally, caffeine can reduce the levels of certain minerals in breast milk, such as iron, calcium, and magnesium. Long-term exposure to caffeine can cause the absorption of fewer minerals, which can have lasting consequences for baby.
Considerations for Other Foods and Beverages
Apart from caffeine, other foods and beverages can also have an effect on the baby’s gas and digestion. Milk and dairy products, for example, can cause gas, bloating, and discomfort in babies who are sensitive to lactose. Additionally, acidic and gassy foods such as broccoli and cabbage can cause digestive issues. It is important to monitor baby’s reactions to these foods and limit any that are causing discomfort.
Alternative Sources of Caffeine
Although coffee is the most common source of caffeine, there are many other sources of caffeine that can be consumed while breastfeeding. These include tea, sodas, energy drinks, chocolate, and some over the counter medications. It is important to be mindful of these sources of caffeine, as they can all contribute to the overall caffeine levels in the breast milk that is consumed by the baby.
Supplements and OTC Medicines
Mothers can also consult a doctor or pediatrician about any over the counter medication or supplements that they may be taking. Some of these, such as cold medications and vitamins, have traces of caffeine in them and can be passed to the baby via the breast milk. It is important to check with a doctor before taking any supplements or OTC medication while breastfeeding.
Caffeine-Free Alternatives
If a mother wants to enjoy a caffeine-free beverage while breastfeeding, they can opt for naturally caffeine-free alternatives such as herbal teas, decaffeinated coffees, or hot chocolate. Additionally, some herbal teas and tisanes contain calming herbs such as chamomile, which can be beneficial for both mother and baby.
Spacing Coffee Intake
It is important to keep in mind that caffeine is passed into breast milk very quickly, and can take up to six hours to clear the body. This means that if the mother is drinking coffee in the morning, she should wait until the afternoon or evening before breastfeeding again. This will give the baby’s body enough time to clear the caffeine from the body and reduce the chances of any discomfort it may cause.
Final Thoughts
Although coffee consumption during breastfeeding is not prohibited, it is important to be mindful of the potential effects it can have on baby. Studies into the effects of coffee on babies have not found any significant differences in gas or discomfort between those who have been exposed to caffeine in breast milk and those who have not. However, mothers should still limit their intake, and consider other alternatives such as herbal teas, decaffeinated coffees, and hot chocolate. Additionally, it is important to watch for any changes in the baby’s behavior, and to consult with a doctor or pediatrician if any reactions occur.
