Caffeine Intake
It’s no secret that coffee is one of the most popular drinks on the planet.But while many adults enjoy their morning cup of joe, pregnant women must be mindful of how much coffee they can consume.It’s important to understand how drinking coffee while pregnant can affect both you and your unborn baby.
Scientific Research
Several studies have been conducted to understand both the short and long-term effects of consuming coffee during pregnancy.One such study found that just 400mg of caffeine, the equivalent of drinking around three cups of coffee, had an impact on the unborn baby’s growth rate.The study went on to report that the same amount of caffeine in mothers over 35 weeks pregnant may reduce placental function.
A separate study surveyed how much coffee women were consuming while pregnant, and the results were varied.Some women only drank one cup per day, while others drank up to five.The study concluded that consuming more coffee than the recommended amount of 200mg each day could lead to undersized babies or a heightened risk for miscarriage.
Health Guidelines
It’s often recommended that pregnant women abstain from drinking coffee altogether during their pregnancy, however most professional entities, such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, suggest that consuming 200mg of caffeine or less per day is best.
This amount is approximately the same as a 12oz cup of coffee.Some experts suggest trying to minimise the amount of coffee you consume during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester.The caffeine can also be found in foods such as tea, chocolate and certain soda drinks, so it’s important to be aware of these sources too.
Benefits Of Coffee
Even though it’s well known that coffee consumption can have negative consequences while pregnant, some studies suggest that it can also have potential benefits.One study conducted over four years and involving over 50,000 women found that it was unlikely for pregnant women who consumed as little as one cup of coffee each day to produce lower birthweight babies.
This research builds on the theory that women may not need to avoid coffee altogether while pregnant.However, it’s important to understand that these findings should be taken with a grain of salt and that your doctor is the best source for advice pertinent to your individual health.
How to Substitute Coffee
It can be difficult to give-up coffee for many pregnant women.However, there are a variety of delicious decaffeinated and herbal teas that are safe to drink in moderate amounts.If you love the hot richness and aroma of coffee you can opt for a decaffeinated option, which some studies have found can still be beneficial in stimulating the mind and relieving stress.
Those who need more than a cup of tea to satisfy their morning caffeine cravings can opt for a non-caffeinated, vitamin enriched smoothie or a freshly squeezed fruit juice.Each of these options contain the necessary nutrients for both you and your unborn baby and are also great alternatives to coffee.
Conclusion and Considerations
Understandably, pregnant women can often worry and wonder if the choices they make could have an effect on their baby’s health.Naturally, expectant mothers are keen to get a full understanding of the consequences of consuming coffee while pregnant.The key takeaway is that, while some studies suggest consuming certain amounts of coffee is safe, the advice of a doctor should always supersede any information given online.
