Health Effects Of Having Coffee While Nursing
Nursing mothers who choose to have coffee while taking care of their newborn may want to consider the potential health effects first. Drinking caffeinated beverages while breastfeeding can potentially disrupt the balance of vitamins and minerals in the infant’s body and can also lead to other health risks. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that breastfeeding mothers limit their caffeine intake to two or fewer servings per day.
Coffee is a stimulant and is known to increase alertness and energy, but the effects are not always positive. Caffeine passes through breast milk and directly into the infant’s stomach and can cause irritability, fussiness, sleeplessness, and nausea. Studies have also shown that it can reduce an infant’s ability to absorb calcium in their stomach.
Effect On Milk Production
Researchers have also found that drinking coffee while nursing could also have an effect on a mother’s milk supply. Caffeine can reduce the amount of prolactin being released, which is a hormone that is responsible for milk production. Too much caffeine can lead to an insufficient amount of lactation and a decrease in how much milk a mother is able to produce.
If a mother chooses to still have coffee while nursing, than it is important for her to monitor her infant’s behavior and response to the caffeine. As the levels of caffeine in breast milk increase, infants may become more reluctant to nurse, be unsettled, or have a change in sleep patterns.
Alternatives to Caffeine
Nursing mothers who crave a bit of caffeine can find alternatives that won’t disrupt their infant’s health. Decaffeinated coffee is an option, however, this does not necessarily mean it is free of caffeine. In general, decaf coffee still contains some levels of caffeine, so mothers should be aware that it still passes into their baby’s body.
Caffeine-free teas and certain herbal teas, such as chamomile, are excellent alternatives. Some teas are even known to improve the taste of breast milk or increase milk production.
Watch Out For Added Ingredients
When selecting a healthier option for getting your caffeine fix, be sure to check the labels and ingredinets of the product. Some cold drinks and juices contain caffeine in various forms and can be high in sugar content. Additionally, many sodas contain caffeine, and some dietary supplements may also contain caffeine, so these should be avoided entirely.
Caffeine Levels In Tea And Coffee
Although decaffeinated coffee can be an option for nursing mothers, it still contains some amounts of caffeine that eventually pass into the breast milk. A rough estimate of how much caffeine is in each ounce of a given drink can be found below:
- 8-ounce cup of black tea: 25-48 milligrams of caffeine
- 8-ounce cup of decaf coffee: 3-15 milligrams of caffeine
- 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee: 95-200 milligrams of caffeine
- 8-ounce cup of energy drink: 27-165 milligrams of caffeine
The Bottom Line
Nursing mothers should be aware of the potential health risks associated with having coffee and other caffeinated drinks while nursing. Studies show that even small amounts of caffeine can affect an infant’s behavior, sleep, and milk production.
It is important to note that there is no hard and fast rule on how much caffeine a nursing mother can or should have during her breastfeeding journey. Every person responds differently to caffeine and it is important to be mindful of how one’s own body and particular infant is affected.
Side Effects
High levels of caffeine intake can cause side effects such as irritability, jitteriness, and restlessness in the nursing baby. Mothers should be vigilant in monitoring the amount of caffeine they are consuming, as this can cause digestive issues, such as constipation and diarrhea, in their baby. Additionally, too much caffeine can lead to dehydration in small infants as it can provide a diuretic effect.
Observe Infant’s Reactions And Behavior
It is essential for nursing mothers to be aware of their infant’s behavior and mood when consuming caffeine, as babies can be more sensitive to the stimulant than adults. Small changes in the infant’s behavior may indicate that the breastfeeding mother should reduce the amount of caffeine she is consuming.
If a mother is unsure about her levels of caffeine intake, it is advisable to speak to her doctor or pediatrician for advice. The AAP also recommends that mothers closely observe their infant’s behavior after consuming caffeine and to monitor the infant while they feed.
Consulting A Doctor
If a breastfeeding mother is concerned about her child’s health related to caffeine consumption, she should consult with a doctor or pediatrician. Doctors are knowledgeable in this area and can provide guidance and advice on ways to help reduce the infant’s caffeine intake or the effects of having too much caffeine.
Takeaway
Before consuming coffee or any other caffeinated beverage while nursing, it is important for a mother to be aware of the potential health risks to her infant. Caffeine can easily pass through to breast milk and can negatively affect an infant’s sleep, alertness, and diet. Additionally, caffeine can also hinder a mother’s milk production, so monitoring the infant’s behaviors after breastfeeding is essential.
Nursing mothers who would like to have a bit of a caffeine fix but are concerned about their infant’s health can look for alternatives such as decaf teas, juices, and energy drinks. Ultimately, it is important for mothers to consult with their doctor or pediatrician and to be mindful of the potential risks associated with consuming caffeine.
