Coffee has become a popular picker-upper for those looking for a boost of energy and alertness. But should breastfeeding mothers be drinking coffee? Is it safe? Just how much can a breastfeeding mother have?
Health experts agree that a moderate consumption of caffeine is safe during breastfeeding – as long as the breastfeeding mother’s own health is taken into consideration first. The American Pregnancy Association recommends that nursing mothers drink no more than two to three 8-oz servings of coffee a day. Since caffeine enters the mother’s bloodstream and also be passed to her infant via her breast milk, it’s best to limit one’s consumption as much as possible.
Breastfed babies should not be given more than 32 oz of caffeine-containing beverages a day. This is considered the maximum dose of caffeine, and is not the recommended consumption. Ideally it would be best to remove all sources of caffeine away from the baby’s reach. Some sources include caffeine in chocolate, soda, tea, and some medications.
Too much caffeine while breastfeeding can have effects such as poor weight gain, agitation, restlessness and insomnia. If a nursing mother notices any of these signs in her baby, she should cut back on her caffeine intake. It may be best for the mother to try to cut out sources of caffeine in her diet altogether, or just limit it to one cup of coffee a day. But the best indicator of how much coffee the mother should drink, is to observe her baby’s behavior and use common sense.
Not every breastfeeding mother has to cut back on her caffeine intake or remove it from her diet. Every individual mother and baby will have a different tolerance level. Some nursing mothers may be able to drink coffee without producing any of the above mentioned signs in her baby. Health experts recommend that each nursing mother observes her baby’s behavior, and be cautious and aware of the possible effects excessive coffee can have on a baby.
Caffeine Hotspots
Coffee is an amazing stimulant which can be found in many popular beverages like energy drinks, soft drinks and some teas. Any maternal intake of these beverages will pass into the mother’s bloodstream and into her breastmilk, and in turn, into her infant’s system. Lattes, Mochas, cappuccinos, hot chocolate and espresso all can contain caffeine.
Women may not even realize that some of their favorite snacks contain caffeine. It’s important to be aware of what type of food and drinks are consumed if the breastfeeding mother desires to monitor her caffeine intake. Processed snacks like chips and instant oatmeal, drinks such as energy or tea, and even chocolate bars can contain caffeine. It’s best for mothers to stick to caffeine-free products when possible to avoid any potential harm to the baby from overconsumption.
Other Effects
Caffeine can affect a nursing mother more than the baby. Not only disrupting her sleep and causing restlessness, it can actually cause a decrease in the amount of milk production. If the baby isn’t getting enough milk, it may experience undue stress and fussiness. Additionally, caffeine can interfere with the mother’s hormone regulation, digestion, absorption of essential minerals, and urinary frequency.
Caffeine is a diuretic, meaning it will make a nursing mother more susceptible to dehydration. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, fatigue, decrease in concentration and focus and decreased milk production. But with the proper hydration, a nursing mother should be able to enjoy a cup of coffee a day without any adverse effects.
Alternatives for Energy
Not all is bleaker for breastfeeding mothers who crave a bit of caffeine in their diet. There are some alternatives to that afternoon cup of coffee, without the adverse effects of too much caffeine. Things like water and healthy snacks help to boost energy. Leafy greens, citrus fruits and nuts are also energy-boosting foods for breastfeeding mothers.
If a breastfeeding mother needs extra help staying energized, taking short periods of rest throughout the day can be beneficial. Taking naps when the baby is napping, and having somebody to take care of the mother, are great ways to keep her energized. Exercising, even if it’s just a short walk or standing up, can also help. Exercise will promote better sleep and involve endorphin release and improve general wellbeing.
Viewpoints and Advice
Most medical professionals agree that a little bit of caffeine intake is beneficial and doesn’t harm the baby. Neurologist Dr. Kit Menkin says that “Women should not be prohibited from consuming caffeinated beverages, as long as it does not exceed two to three cups per day.” However, pediatrician Dr. Tanya O’Neill advises “What is most important is the overall diet of the breastfeeding mother and her overall health.”
As long as a mother keeps her own health in mind and monitors her diet, she should be able to incorporate some caffeine intake in her diet. Health and nutrition experts recommend that women stick to a maximum of three cups of 8-oz coffee a day during breastfeeding and abstain from energy drinks and soft drinks. That way, the mother can avoid any potential adverse side effects for both her and her baby.
Self Care
When it comes to motherhood, self-care is just as important as taking care of the baby. Taking some relaxation time, whether it’s with a morning cup of coffee or reading a book, is important for a breastfeeding mother. The pursuit of self-care when the appropriate precautions are taken is commendable, and many professionals agree with this assertion.
Swapping out a caffeinated beverage for a caffeine free herbal tea may be a great option for an expecting mother that still desires some note of relaxation during her day. Nursing mothers today are expected to also be working mothers and multitask like never before. Stress is inevitable and can have a huge toll on both the mother and the baby. Incorporating caffeine free drinks should be a priority for the health of the mother and her infant.
Moderation
It’s important for the health of the mother and the baby to follow the suggested guidelines and intake of caffeine. It’s easy to be tempted by too much coffee when sleep deprivation kicks in, but women should strive to use moderation as much as possible.
Pediatrician Dr. Cara Natterson says “Breastfeeding moms can have one cup of caffeinated coffee a day if baby is not overly jittery or fussy after feedings, and if baby is growing well. Beyond one cup of coffee, it’s a good idea to get the baby’s okay first.” In other words, the mother should make sure her baby is in no way affected by her caffeine intake as much as possible.
In conclusion, breastfeeding women need to ensure they are drinking coffee and other caffeinated beverages in moderation. Too much caffeine can have adverse effects on both the mother and her baby. Drinking coffee during breastfeeding can be beneficial when consumed in small doses, but should not be excessive.
