Drinking coffee while pregnant can be a topic many are unsure of. How much is safe? Is it even safe to drink coffee at all? There’s been ongoing debate about drinking coffee during pregnancy for many years, but what does the research tell us about drinking coffee at 39 weeks pregnant?
Caffeine is found in many types of drinks like tea, energy drinks, and soda. Naturally, coffee may not be the first beverage someone might think of when it comes to pregnant women and caffeine, but there may be more to the story than what meets the eye. According to Dr. Magne Raundalen, a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Norway’s University of Tromso, the research on the effects of caffeine on the developing baby are inconclusive.
Studies have shown mixed results when it comes to the affects of coffee consumption during pregnancy. While some suggest a link between coffee consumption and an increased risk of miscarriage, low birth-weight, or preterm birth, other studies found that coffee consumption had little to no effect. Additionally, some research has shown coffee consumption may have an effect on the cognitive development of newborns.
It is important to consider how much coffee is consumed in light of the research. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends pregnant women consume no more than 200 mg of caffeine per day due to the lack of conclusive proof of the effects of caffeine on the fetus.
Dr Gautami Purandare is a consultant gynecologist and obstetrician at a major hospital in Mumbai, India. She notes that, “Desi chai which is a mixture of milk, sugar and tea has a moderate dose of caffeine around 48mg-60mg of caffeine. Even a single shot of espresso has around 150mg of caffeine and a cup of instant coffee contains 80-100mg of caffeine.” The recommendation of 200 mg per day is a reasonable limit, and it is recommended to limit caffeine prior to 39 weeks pregnant or closer to delivery.
Despite all of the research, however, many women still drink coffee while pregnant. However, as with all things in life, everything should be done in moderation. A cup a day is probably safe, but it’s wise to ask a doctor for their opinion if considering drinking coffee at 39 weeks pregnant or the recommended 200 mg per day limit. Coffee can be a great pick-me-up for those days when an expectant mother may not have a lot of energy, but it is best to drink it in moderation.
Coffee Alternatives
Luckily, there are many alternative options available for pregnant women who do not wish to drink coffee. In place of coffee, women can try decaffeinated options such as herbal teas and other non-caffeinated beverages. Dr. Purandare notes that there are certain brands of decaffeinated coffee that still offer some flavor but don’t contain the same amount of caffeine that regular coffee does. Many grocery stores also carry caffeine-free alternatives as well.
Caffeine-free alternatives are also a great option for those who want to enjoy the ritual of a hot beverage without the caffeine. There are many herbal teas such as spearmint and chamomile that provide a soothing, calming effect. Other alternatives such as warm almond or soymilk can provide additional minerals, vitamins, and zinc for more nutritional benefits.
Lastly, one can also try warmer beverages such as non-dairy hot chocolate. This can be made with non-dairy milks and flavorings, and is another wonderful alternative to coffee when pregnant.
Other Benefits of Avoiding Coffee While Pregnant
Not only is it better to stay away from coffee while pregnant, avoiding coffee may have other benefits too. Apart from reducing the potential risks associated with caffeine consumption, research has found that abstaining from coffee consumption can have actual health benefits. For example, coffee consumption while pregnant has been linked to constipation in pregnant women, suggesting that the caffeine can actually act as a diuretic and cause dehydration.
Studies have also shown that pregnant women who abstain from coffee consumption may have lower levels of tension and stress, as well as more energy throughout the day. Additionally, a study by the Department of Preventive Medicine at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that women who stopped drinking coffee during their third trimester had higher levels of Vitamin D, which is essential for maternal and fetal health.
Thus, by abstaining from coffee consumption while pregnant, women can enjoy better overall health. Not to mention, fewer worries and concerns associated with the potential adverse effects of drinking coffee while pregnant.
Tips For Moderation
Cutting down on caffeine consumption while pregnant can be easier said than done. But there are several key tips that physicians advise pregnant women to follow. Firstly, it is important to include regular snacks that contain protein and iron throughout the day. This not only helps to stave off hunger, but can also help to reduce caffeine and sugar cravings.
It also helps to drink caffeine-free beverages in between meals or instead of a meal, as this can help to reduce the overall caffeine intake for the day. Additionally, it can be a good idea to switch between regular coffee and decaffeinated coffee during the day. This way, pregnant women can still enjoy their favorite beverage without compromising the health of their baby.
Finally, limiting caffeine is easy with the right mindset. Staying hydrated throughout the day and setting realistic goals around caffeine intake can help make the transition to drinking less caffeine easier for expectant moms.
Coffee Substitutes
If pregnant women are looking for ways to satisfy their cravings for coffee, there are numerous alternatives that can do just that. Brewers have created a wide range of herbal drinks and tisanes that pack a flavorful punch without the caffeine, sugars, and dairy.
Fruit- or flower-based drinks also come in many interesting varieties, and pregnant women can experiment with herbal mixtures to create different flavor profiles. These drinks are full of vitamins and minerals, and will ensure that the mother-to-be’s body receives the necessary nutrients that it needs while pregnant.
Some of the more popular drinks are chamomile tea, rose tea, and lavender tea. Though these herbal drinks may not offer the same instant boost that coffee does, chamomile and lavender teas are known for their calming properties and are said to be beneficial for the pregnant mother as well as for the baby. A gentle cup of one of these teas can provide a relaxed environment for both mother and baby.
Oat or almond milks are also a great alternative to coffee. Not only do these drinks provide a similar consistency and taste to coffee, but they also have numerous health benefits. Oats contain important minerals such as iron and magnesium, while almond milk is rich in Omega–3 fatty acids and vitamin E. Thus, these non-dairy milks can be a nutritious alternative to coffee if pregnant women decide to limit their coffee consumption.
Risks Of Drinking Coffee While Pregnant
Some of the main concerns of drinking coffee while pregnant include increases of miscarriage, such as low birth-weight and preterm birth. Studies have shown that expecting women who drank more than two cups of coffee a day were more likely to have a premature baby than those who drank half a cup or less.
Another potential risk of coffee consumption while pregnant is an increased risk of hypertension in the mother, which can lead to other health issues such as nervous system damage, vision and kidney problems. The consumption of excessive amounts of caffeine is also known to increase anxiety levels in the mother-to-be, and can lead to an increased risk of postpartum depression.
Besides the physical risks associated with drinking coffee while pregnant, expectant mothers should also be aware of their baby’s development while still in the womb. A study from the University of Helsinki School of Medicine showed that large amounts of caffeine can impair the development of a child’s nervous system and lead to birth defects.
Even more, other studies suggest that caffeine may reduce the amount of calcium absorbed by the body, which is essential for strong bones, enamel, and teeth. High amounts of caffeine can also increase the risk of miscarriage and cause newborns to be irritable, thus it is best for an expecting mother to limit the amount of caffeine intake during pregnancy.
Alternatives to Coffee While Pregnant
If expecting women find themselves craving coffee and can’t seem to escape the call of caffeine, there are plenty of alternatives to drinking coffee while pregnant. Generally, drinking water is the best alternative to all drinks, as it helps to keep mother and baby hydrated. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is also great for helping to curb those coffee cravings.
Other caffeine-free alternatives are variety of fruity beverage such as fresh juices, smoothies, and delicious teas with mixtures of different herbs and fruits. Some of these even come with added vitamins and minerals, which can be essential for the expecting mother. If an expecting mother does crave caffeine-based beverages, then it is best to stick to decaffeinated products as these are generally considered safe.
In conclusion, drinking coffee while pregnant can be a personal decision, and it is always best to talk to a physician before making any decision. While the International Food Information Council Foundation says it is generally safe for pregnant women to drink coffee, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends no more than 200 mg of caffeine per day. While there are various research studies that look into the affects of drinking coffee while pregnant, research doesn’t provide conclusive evidence of the potential risks. Pregnant women should talk to their doctors if they have questions or concerns.
