Caffeine Consumption by Breastfeeding Mothers
Many new mothers are aware that caffeine consumption is restricted during pregnancy due to possible negative effects on the developing fetus. The question of whether caffeine consumption should be avoided while breastfeeding is equally as pertinent. While there isn’t any evidence to suggest that caffeine consumption harms a breastfeeding baby, there are a number of factors that should be considered before making a decision.
Eliminating Caffeine From the Breast Milk
One factor new mothers should consider is eliminating caffeine from the breast milk. Caffeine is slowly eliminated from a mother’s body while breast-feeding, and is found in very low concentrations in the breast milk she provides to her infant. Since it takes the body a relatively long time to eliminate caffeine, it’s possible for the levels to build up in the breast milk if the mother drinks several cups of coffee each day. For this reason, it’s recommended that mothers reduce their caffeine consumption to one cup per day or less while breastfeeding.
Caffeine’s Impact on a Baby’s Sleep
Another factor to consider is caffeine’s potential impact on a baby’s sleep patterns. Caffeine is a stimulant, so it’s not ideal for a baby who might already have trouble sleeping during the day or at night. It could make a baby’s sleeplessness worse, making it harder for the mom to get enough rest too. Therefore, it’s important to consider whether limiting caffeine consumption while breastfeeding will help improve a baby’s sleep patterns.
Avoiding Too Much Caffeine
It’s also important to point out that excess caffeine consumption can present a few risks for the baby. For example, some studies have shown that babies whose mothers drink more than two cups of coffee per day tend to have increased levels of adrenaline in their systems. Babies who have excess levels of adrenaline can become irritable and fussy and may struggle with gaining weight.
Long-Term Effects on Babies
Another potential risk of too much caffeine consumption for breastfeeding mothers is the possible long-term effects on the baby’s health. Some studies have suggested that excessive caffeine consumption during breastfeeding may be linked to an increased risk for diabetes and heart disease later in life. This means that it may be beneficial for new mothers to limit their caffeine intake, even if drinking more than two cups per day doesn’t appear to have an immediate negative effect.
Cost Of Drinking Coffee While Breastfeeding
New mothers should also consider the cost of drinking coffee while breastfeeding. Coffee, while delicious, can be quite expensive. The cost of buying multiple cups of coffee a day can quickly add up, meaning that new mothers may be better off eliminating caffeine altogether or, at least, limiting their caffeine intake to one cup per day.
Effects On Mood And Productivity
Finally, it’s important to consider the effects drinking coffee while breastfeeding has on the new mother’s moods and productivity levels. Caffeine can have a significant impact on both mood and productivity, potentially leading to feelings of anxiety, irritability and stress. While eliminating caffeine altogether can be difficult, new mothers may want to consider whether reducing their caffeine intake could lead to improved mood and productivity levels.
Alternative Sources of Caffeine
New mothers who are looking to consume some caffeine while breastfeeding but want to do so safely may benefit from looking for alternative sources of caffeine, such as green tea or decaf coffee. Both of these options are free of the side-effects that caffeine can have on a growing baby and can still provide a bit of a boost for new moms who might be in need of some extra energy.
Making an Informed Choice
Ultimately, the decision of whether to drink coffee while breastfeeding a newborn is an individual one. New mothers should take all the available evidence into consideration before making a decision that’s best for them and their baby. By considering the potential risks and benefits of consuming caffeine while breastfeeding and making an informed choice, new mothers can rest assured that they are making the best decision for them and their baby.
