Benefits of Drinking Coffee in Pregnancy
Coffee is an essential part of modern life, with many of us drinking multiple cups each day. But can pregnant women join in the coffee drinking? If a woman learns she is pregnant, one of the first questions that comes up is whether she can drink coffee whilst pregnant. Here, we will take a look at the pros and cons of drinking coffee in pregnancy and what the official guidelines say.
When pregnant, it is important to take extra care with what a woman puts into her body. Many of the food and drinks that are safe normally can become sources of worry during pregnancy. Coffee is one of those drinks and it is important to know that pregnant women can safely enjoy coffee in moderation. That being said, it is important to know that there are certain risks to drinking too much.
Caffeine Intake During Early Pregnancy
The NHS recommends that pregnant women limit their caffeine intake to 200mg per day for the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, and it is best to avoid coffee altogether during the first 5 weeks of pregnancy. Research has found that greater amounts of caffeine during the first trimester can be linked to an increased risk of miscarriage and certain infant illnesses, so this is why pregnant women should limit their intake.
Coffee and Hydration
Coffee can play an important role in hydration, although it is important to be aware that the caffeine in coffee can have a diuretic effect, meaning it can increase dehydration if it is not being consumed alongside other fluids like water. Commenting on this, midwife and fertility expert Helen Ball says: “Coffee and other caffeinated beverages can actually cause dehydration if they are the only drinks you are consuming. It is important to make sure you’re drinking enough water each day to keep you and your baby well hydrated.”
Effects of Caffeine on the Fetus
The effects of caffeine on the fetus depend on the amount being consumed by the mother. High amounts of caffeine can cross the placenta, so it is important for pregnant women to be aware of how much caffeine is in their diet. Some of the research suggests that high levels of caffeine intake during pregnancy can increase the risk of certain problems such as:
- Low birthweight.
- Preterm birth.
- Pregnancy loss or stillbirth.
- An increased risk of childhood obesity.
The NHS has also noted a potential link between drinking large amounts of coffee during pregnancy and an increased risk of having a baby with a small head circumference. It is worth noting that there is still very little evidence to support this, and current research suggests that these risks are relatively low.
It is also important to be aware that caffeine passes easily into the breastmilk, and the World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that women should limit their caffeine intake to 300mg or less per day in order to reduce any potential risks to the baby.
Coffee Alternatives for Pregnant Women
For those looking to reduce their caffeine intake, there are plenty of exciting alternatives to coffee. Herbal teas are a great way to increase intake of vitamins, minerals and fluids, and decaffeinated coffee is another great option. For those looking to enjoy the taste of regular coffee without the caffeine, cold brew and instant decaffeinated coffees are both available.
A Practical Guide to Coffee in Pregnancy
Due to the lack of research on the topic of coffee consumption in pregnancy, it is difficult to give a definitive answer on how much coffee pregnant women can drink, but there are certain guidelines laid out by the WHO, the NHS, and various health experts that pregnant women should be aware of.
If a pregnant woman is planning on continuing to drink coffee throughout her pregnancy, it is recommended that she keep her caffeine intake to 200mg or less each day. This should be in addition to other fluids, and pregnant women are advised to drink lots of water, herbal teas and decaffeinated drinks throughout the day.
It is also worth noting that pregnant women should pay special attention to the amount of caffeine they take in, and it is advised that any caffeinated products are consumed in moderation. Nutritionists and health professionals may also be able to provide additional advice and guidance, and there are plenty of non-caffeinated alternatives and drinks that pregnant women can drink.
Dangers of Heavy Caffeine Use During Pregnancy
Caffeine can be a helpful addition to the average person’s diet, but pregnant women may require special attention to avoid negative side effects. Heavy caffeine use during pregnancy has been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, and preterm birth, as well as certain developmental issues in the baby.
This is why it is important for pregnant women to be aware of the guidelines for caffeine intake, and to keep their intake to an acceptable level. Exercising caution and moderation is key for coffee drinking pregnant women, and women are also advised to speak with medical professionals to acquire additional advice and guidance on the matter.
Sources of Caffeine in Pregnancy
Pregnant women should be especially aware of products with high levels of caffeine, and they should always check what ingredients are within products before consuming them.
In addition to beverages like coffee, tea, and energy drinks, there are also starches, chocolates, and some medications that contain caffeine. Additionally, lab experiments have also discovered caffeine in a number of food items which are commonly marketed as being caffeine-free, such as dairy products and energy bars made with guarana extract.
How to Cut Down Caffeine Intake in Pregnancy
Cutting down on caffeine can be difficult, but it is possible with a few helpful tips. Gradually reducing caffeine intake can help a pregnant woman reach the recommended 200mg per day. This can be done by replacing caffeinated drinks with decaffeinated ones, or by switching to a low-caffeine option such as herbal tea or hot chocolate.
Regularly checking the ingredients and nutrition labels of items can also be a useful tool for pregnant women looking to cut down on their caffeine intake, as many products can contain hidden sources of caffeine.
The Bottom Line
Coffee can be safely enjoyed in moderation during pregnancy, but a pregnant woman should make sure she keeps to no more than 200mg of caffeine per day. Extra caution should be taken with products containing other sources of caffeine, and it is important to keep hydrated by replacing coffee and other caffeinated beverages with water, decaffeinated drinks, and herbal teas.
Finally, talk to a medical professional for advice as all pregnancies are different, and it is always best to consult with them before making any drastic changes to a pregnant woman’s diet.
