Pregnancy is an incredibly exciting time, but it can also be challenging. Knowing how much coffee to drink during pregnancy is one daunting question that many expectant mothers face. As a stimulant, coffee contains caffeine and has both pros and cons to consider. While some believe that pregnant women should altogether avoid caffeine consumption, experts suggest having a moderate consumption could be beneficial.
Consuming two or three cups of coffee per day while pregnant has been associated with lower rates of stillbirth, suggesting that moderate consumption of particular types of coffee can be beneficial. There is evidence that coffee triggers cholecystokinin, a hormone seen to modulate food intake and tummy fullness. Coffee consumption has also been found to be linked with a decrease in the risk of Alzheimer’s Disease, faster response times and greater alertness.
At the same time, drinking too much coffee can increase the risk of miscarriage and has been linked to preterm birth. Caffeine is a diuretic and as such it can during pregnancy contribute to a decrease in birth weight and also increase sodium levels. The consumption of caffeine can lead to increased fetal heart rate, along with fewer and shorter episodes of movement activity. As a result, it is important to maintain limits to avoid possible complications due to excessive consumption of coffee.
Ideally, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women consume less than 200 mg of caffeine per day or the equivalent of one cup of coffee. Caffeine can also be found in tea, chocolate and energy drinks, for this reason, pregnant women should be mindful of their overall intake in all these products. When trying to limit coffee consumption, healthier alternatives can be drunk instead of coffee such as chai tea, fresh juices and herbal teas.
While coffee during pregnancy can be beneficial, it can also be harmful. The best approach is to limit your intake to only the occasional cup the equivalent 200 mg of caffeine and ensure that you stay hydrated at all times. Pregnant women should also speak to their doctor, who can give them advice on how much coffee to drink.
Risk Of Hypertension Due To Coffee
Pregnant women who frequently consume large amounts of coffee are at greater risk of developing hypertension. Hypertension is a condition characterized by high blood pressure, and can have serious adverse effects on a woman’s health and ultimately the fetus’ development. In fact, caffeine can cause an increase of around 10 mm Hg, which is the equivalent of double their normal blood pressure. Hypertension can cause long-term problems for the pregnant woman, including an increased risk of pre-eclampsia, a condition that can endanger both the mother and the baby.
Nutritional Content Of Coffee
Although coffee does not have a significant nutritional content, and is mostly considered a source of caffeine, there are other components of coffee that can provide health benefits. Coffee contains small amounts of the following nutrients: Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5), and Manganese. Coffee also contains an abundance of antioxidants and polyphenols, substances that can help protect the human body from inflammation and certain diseases.
Green Coffee Bean For Pregnant Women
Green coffee beans are gaining popularity as a health supplement and are considered to be a safer alternative for pregnant women who are looking for an energy boost. Green coffee beans have antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and other health benefits. Green coffee beans contain very low levels of caffeine, enough to give the user an energy boost without any of the risks associated with caffeine.
Other Considerations
There has been conflicting scientific evidence as to whether or not drinking coffee during pregnancy is safe. It is important to take into account a pregnant woman’s individual health, lifestyle, family history and other personal factors before advocating for or against coffee consumption. No single answer is applicable to all pregnant women, and it is important to discuss one’s caffeine consumption habits with one’s doctor.
