Green coffee has become one of the health trends of the moment for its purported weight loss benefits. But when it comes to breastfeeding, many people are asking the same question – can I drink it?
Green coffee is an unroasted version of the coffee bean, also known as raw or Arabica coffee beans. It contains higher levels of chlorogenic acids, an antioxidant believed to promote weight loss by reducing fat absorption. The debate around whether or not it’s safe to drink while breastfeeding has been ongoing for some time, and as with most things, the answer isn’t a hard yes or no.
Experts say that it’s best to avoid drinking green coffee when breastfeeding, due to the possible implications it may have on your baby. As with any new food or beverage, the effects of green coffee on a baby’s health are unknown, and the effects may vary from one baby to another. As such, it’s best to err on the side of caution and skip green coffee for now.
Green coffee may also affect milk supply and milk production as levels of caffeine can reach up to 15 milligrams per cup, higher than the 10 milligrams deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers.
That being said, some experts do believe that it can be safe to drink in moderation. Breastfeeding mothers have reported drinking green coffee without any ill effects. However, it’s still wise to remember the potential risks and consult with your doctor or healthcare provider to see if green coffee is a good choice for you.
To make sure you stay healthy while breastfeeding, it’s best to focus on a balanced diet and exercising regularly. Eating fresh, nutritious fruits and vegetables, getting adequate protein and cutting down on sugary snacks can help. Also, try to drink plenty of water to keep hydrated and to flush out toxins from your body. This will help your body to naturally release the necessary compounds and hormones it needs to produce adequate amounts of breast milk.
Caffeine and Breastfeeding
Like green coffee, caffeine is another substance that has been linked to reduced milk production when consumed in large amounts. The degree of absorption of caffeine into breastmilk depends on how quickly the mother drinks the beverage and how much she drinks throughout the day. The more concentrated her caffeine levels are, the more likely it is that trace amounts of caffeine will pass through her milk.
While some studies have suggested that caffeine can lead to insomnia and irritability in infants, this has yet to be definitively proven. When breastfeeding mothers reduce their caffeine intake, they may notice their little one sleeping better at night, but it’s unclear if there is a direct correlation between the two.
To stay on the safe side, breastfeeding mothers should reduce their caffeine intake to less than 300 milligrams per day, which is equivalent to about two to three cups of coffee. Try to maintain a consistent level of caffeine throughout the day and wait at least two hours after drinking a cup of coffee before breastfeeding to ensure that the caffeine doesn’t get into your baby’s system.
Natural Alternatives to Green Coffee
There are many natural alternatives to green coffee that can help boost your energy levels while breastfeeding without putting your baby’s health at risk. Some of these include:
- Herbal teas such as chamomile, lavender and fennel
- Fresh juice made from fruits and veggies
- Coconut water
- Smoothies
These natural drinks are packed full of essential minerals and vitamins that can help to boost your energy levels. Plus, they’re free of caffeine, meaning that you won’t need to worry about the amount of caffeine that’s making its way into your breast milk and passing to your baby.
Things to Keep in Mind
When deciding whether or not you should drink green coffee while breastfeeding, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, be aware of the potential risks. While green coffee is believed to have many benefits, it’s still unknown as to how it could affect your baby. Secondly, be sure to track how much caffeine you’re drinking. If your intake is too high, it could have a negative effect on your milk production and cause your baby to become irritable.
Finally, if you do decide to drink green coffee while breastfeeding, consult with your doctor or healthcare provider to ensure that the decision is right for you and your baby. They will be able to give you more personalized advice and help you decide on the best course of action.
Caffeine Levels in Green Coffee
It is important for breastfeeding mothers to be aware of the caffeine levels in each cup of green coffee, as the amount may vary. Generally, green coffee contains 12-16 milligrams of caffeine per cup, but it can range from 8 milligrams to as high as 21 milligrams.
However, the precise caffeine levels in each cup of green coffee depend on various factors, including the type of bean and roast, the size of the grind, the brewing method and the amount of time you steep the drink. You may also find trace amounts of caffeine in certain types of unroasted coffee, as caffeine is naturally present in the raw beans.
What are the Benefits of Green Coffee?
Green coffee is thought to have many potential benefits when consumed by healthy adults, including aiding weight loss, lowering blood sugar and cholesterol, and increasing metabolism.
There are also many anecdotal claims that green coffee can increase energy levels and help reduce fatigue, but so far there is little scientific evidence to back these claims.
Green coffee may also be beneficial for people with certain conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, as studies have found that it can help lower blood sugar levels. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects on this condition.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to drink green coffee when breastfeeding is a personal one. Although it has many potential health benefits, green coffee can also be dangerous if taken in large amounts. As such, it’s important to talk to your doctor before adding it to your diet. They will be able to provide you with personalized advice and help you make an informed decision.
