Risks of Drinking Coffee when Pregnant
Pregnant women are often careful to check what they eat and drink, as it can affect their unborn child’s health. One drink that they must be especially cautious of is coffee, as excessive intake can have certain negative effects. A normal cup of coffee contains 60 to 200mg of caffeine, which is a “stimulant drug of the central nervous system.” This can affect the unborn baby, making them more prone to birth defects and developmental problems.
One study from 2004 showed that committing to more than 300mg of caffeine a day (about three cups of coffee) can increase the chances of a miscarriage. Although women are advised to limit their consumption, the risk associated with a moderate caffeine consumption (less than 200mg) is still up for debate. Some doctors recommend that pregnant women should discontinue caffeine consumption in their first trimester to minimize the risks.
Coffee has a number of other effects associated with it such as stomach upset, increased heart rate and higher blood pressure. Those who have high blood pressure even before pregnancy should definitely avoid excessive coffee consumption as its harmful effects are intensified in this condition.
Benefits of Drinking Coffee when Pregnant
Coffee has potential benefits when it comes to pregnancy — in moderation. Consuming a small amount of coffee provides many healthy benefits such as improved digestion, enhanced concentration and general alleviation of fatigue. Coffee can also help the metabolism of pregnant women, which is necessary to keep their bodies in shape. However, the studies that found these effects have been limited to two or three cups of coffee per day — any more than that increases the risk of miscarriage and other health problems.
Other possible benefits may include protecting healthy cells from damage due to free radicals promoting skin health, preventing premature contractions and helping with constipation. Caffeine can help pregnant women focus and feel more awake, enhance mood and provide other cognitive benefits. Additionally, research has found that modest consumption of coffee is associated with a reduced risk of gestational diabetes, lowered risk of low birth weight and lesser chances of premature delivery.
Consumption Tips for Pregnant Women
As with other ingredients and food items, pregnant women should check with their doctor in terms of whether or not to consume coffee during their pregnancy. Ultimately, every woman’s body is different, and it is up to them and their doctor to decide if consuming coffee is suitable in the situation.
Generally, pregnant women should stick to one cup or two cups of coffee, if it’s allowed by their doctor. This should provide the adequate amount of benefits without the negative effects taking a toll. It is also wise to stay away from additives like sugar and milk, as these can add more calories and also contain hormones and other ingredients that can put additional risks on the unborn baby’s health. Finally, some pregnant ladies prefer to take decaf coffee, which usually has about 5 to 10 mg of caffeine in it. Decaffeinated coffee is a good alternative, with the added benefits of antioxidants and other essential nutrients that can benefit the unborn baby.
Alternatives to Coffee
If pregnant women choose to discontinue coffee from their diet, there are various alternatives that they can try. Pregnant women are advised to stay as hydrated as possible and many can replace coffee with a sugar-free and low-calorie drink such as cold or hot water, fruit juices, smoothies, tea and milk. Juice candidates can include a blend of water, cucumber and green apples or carrot, celery and beetroots or pineapple, lime and broccoli for added nutrients and minerals. Pregnant women should also avoid intake of sugary drinks as these can put them at risk for weight gain and gestational diabetes.
Furthermore, some herbal teas are safe for pregnant women and even provide benefits, such as peppermint, ginger, yerba mate and chamomile. These teas can ease nausea and vomiting, relieve cramps and improve digestion. Green tea is also a viable option due to its high polyphenol content and can even prevent the risk of preterm delivery.
Conclusion
Ultimately, a pregnant woman must check with her doctor or healthcare provider in terms of her diet and nutrition throughout her pregnancy. Coffee is generally safe to drink when pregnant, but in moderation — one or two cups of coffee — and without additives. There are also numerous alternatives to coffee, such as herbal teas that can provide additional health benefits.
