Negative Effects on Monitors
Studies show that there are certain substances that can have a negative effect on a baby’s health when consumed by the mother while breastfeeding. Caffeine is included in this list, as well as alcohol and certain medications, due to its diuretic effects. While it is generally accepted that occasional consumption of these substances is not harmful to the baby, it might be better to reduce or even avoid them when possible.
Drinking coffee while breastfeeding could affect the infant in several ways. Caffeine is known to cross the placenta and enter into the amniotic fluid that surrounds the fetus when pregnant, such that caffeine-induced stimulation of the fetal brain may happen. Caffeine consumed by breastfeeding moms may affect the child’s nervous system the same way, specially the Central Nervous System, by penetrating into the breast milk itself. Also, if a breastfeeding mother drinks coffee, the baby may become more irritable, hyperactive and restless, having difficulties to sleep and becoming easily agitated.
Slowed Growth
When it comes to the topic of growth development and possible stunting effects caused by caffeine intake, it has been concluded that studies carried out to that end point to mixed results. Some research suggests that consuming caffeine in moderate amounts during the first three months of breastfeeding has no impact on a baby’s growth. However, studies done in infants between 4-12 months of age have raises some concerns in regards to the potential effects of caffeine consumption while breastfeeding, as they have found a decrease in their body weight, height growth, and head circumference.
However more research is needed to confirm these outcomes and assess the exact magnitude of these outcomes in the infants taking into account other factors that could impact the growth such as nutrition and general health. Most experts recommend avoiding caffeine in the first few months at least, unless advised by a pediatrician. According to OB-GYN Diana Ramos, MD, MPH: “It is generally accepted that breastfeeding mothers should minimize their caffeine intake to ≤300mg/day to reduce any potential effects in the infant,” which is the equivalent of about two to three cups of coffee.
Intake Recommendations for Safety
Some research supports the fact that consuming large amounts of caffeine while breastfeeding can lead to decreased daily weight gain in infants and affect their glucose metabolism and respiration rate. Although these studies have unfortunately not provided clear and definitive answers on the exact amount of caffeine that can have an effect on growth, it is always better to be safe and focus on the recommendation of no more than 300mg/day.
Most caffeine-containing drinks and products have labels indicating the amount of caffeine they provide in the respective serving sizes, providing an easy way to track the exact caffeine content of a certain drink and the amount consumed by the mother everyday.
It is also important to note, that coffee will usually pass into breast milk within about thirty to sixty minutes, meaning that coffee can significantly disrupt a baby’s sleeping pattern. Therefore, it is preferable to limit cafefine intake and especially coffee, to the early mornings or to late afternoons.
Coffee Alternatives
If mothers cannot completely avoid coffee during this period of time, they can opt for coffee alternatives with low or no caffeine, as it is essential to fulfill the need for energy and hydration during this time. Brewing decaffeinated coffee is one option, and there are many, delicious coffee-like drinks available which include caffeine amounts lower than traditional coffee. Examples for coffee alternatives are naturally decaffeinated coffee and tea, matcha, yerba mate and some herbal teas.
Alternate Sources of Caffeine
While it is important to watch out for caffeine intake from coffee, it is also important to watch out for unexpected sources of caffeine that are also contained in foods and drinks that breastfeeding mothers may consume. Chocolate, for instance, contains caffeine, as does some energy drinks, sodas, and other over-the-counter medications.
Final Thoughts
Coffee is a beverage enjoyed by many people, and while it is important to watch the intake of caffeine while breastfeeding, occasionally consuming coffee while breastfeeding should not be of major concern when done in moderation. However, as every individual has different sensitivity levels, it is important to closely follow the guidelines and limit the consumption of any substance that may affect the baby’s health while breastfeeding.
Caffeine and Dehydration
Caffeine is known to have a diuretic effect, which means that the body releases fluids more quickly, making it easier to become dehydrated. During breastfeeding, a woman needs to stay hydrated, which means that regular consumption of caffeinated drinks may cause the body to lose more water than it needs. Drinking more water can help to compensate for this, but avoiding or limiting caffeinated drinks is the best way to ensure that dehydration does not become an issue.
Side Effects of Caffeine
Caffeine has been linked to restlessness and a decrease in the quality of sleep in babies. This can be a result of caffeine present in the invading breast milk, which means that mothers should be aware of the amount of caffeinated drinks they consume. In the worst cases, it may even cause irritability and discomfort in the baby. Additionally, caffeine can have a stimulating effect which infants may find difficult to handle in larger doses, making them hyperactive and restless.
A Healthy Balance
While occasional consumption of caffeine while breastfeeding might be safe, it is important to remember that in some infants, even small amounts of caffeine could have an impact on their mood and quality of sleep. Therefore, every mother should be aware of their coffee intake and decide for herself whether coffee is something she wants to consume or avoid during her breastfeeding journey, in order to ensure that her baby is developing in the healthiest way possible.
