Breastfeeding moms often worry about the risks of drinking coffee when breastfeeding. As with many things in life, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. For the most part, moderate consumption of coffee is unlikely to harm the baby – though it is important that each mom weighs up her own decision and keeps her baby’s health in mind.
In similar scenarios, the official advice is to ‘do as you would normally do’. Studies have shown that the best breastfeeding advice is often ignored as mothers pay too much attention to the popular ‘rules’ they hear in the media.
The opinion of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is that breastfeeding mothers should not restrict their diet. This includes coffee. In fact, it recommends that breastfeeding mothers should include caffeine in their regular diet, as many mothers do not consume enough substances that naturally contain caffeine. As long as it is within daily recommended limits of 300mg per day, it should not affect the mother or baby.
An important caveat here is that caffeine passes through both breast milk and a pregnant woman’s body relatively quickly. This means that the amount of caffeine a baby gets from her mother’s consumption is relatively small and will likely not have any detectable effect.
However, it is worth noting that too much caffeine (over 300mg per day) can affect a mother’s milk supply – though the science on this is mixed. And none of the studies looking at caffeine consumption and its effects during pregnancy have included breastfeeding mothers.
As with all things, mothers should look to their own gut feeling. For example, if a nursing mother feels more anxious or overly energized after ingesting caffeine, then it is possible that her baby may be feeling the same way.
Caffeine & The Health of the Mother
It is possible that drinking coffee may have an effect on breastfeeding mothers’ health – though it is difficult to put this definitively.
It’s true that extreme consumption of caffeine may lead to unwanted side-effects, such as feeling fatigued and being unable to focus on anything. But that is not to say that a cup of coffee from time to time will have this effect.
Indeed, a study of over 3,000 mothers showed that moderate coffee consumption (up to a few cups per day, or up to 300mg of caffeine per day) had no negative effect on their milk production, milk quality, or milk supply.
However, if a breastfeeding mother has a sensitivity to caffeine then she should limit her intake or avoid it completely. This is not only true for coffee, but for other forms of caffeine as well, such as energy drinks and chocolate.
Health of the Baby
When it comes to the health of the baby, the studies are more ‘mixed’. Many show that moderate intake of coffee is safe, while others suggest that it can be a risk factor for infants being restless, irritable, and having a hard time sleeping.
It is important to note that other lifestyle factors may be attributed to these problems. For example, if a breastfeeding mother is feeling stressed or anxious, then this could also be causing the baby to be restless.
Another consideration is that mothers who drink coffee also tend to be more physically active and have more social interaction, both of which can disturb a newborn’s sleep.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the key point is that, as long as it is done in moderation, drinking coffee is generally considered to be safe for breastfeeding mothers. In saying that, mothers should always err on the side of caution when it comes to their baby’s health and should speak to their doctor or healthcare professional for individual advice and guidance – especially if they have any underlying medical condition.
Possible Alternatives If Deciding to Avoid Caffeine
It is important to note that while coffee is a common go-to beverage amongst adults, there are many alternatives that do not contain caffeine. These include herbal teas, decaffeinated tea and coffee, and specialty alternatives like dandelion coffee, chicory coffee and matcha tea.
These can still provide a refreshing, energizing pick-me-up without the potential drawbacks that come with caffeine. Other alternatives that can have a similar effect to coffee include blue-green algae drinks like spirulina and chlorella, as well as ginger tea.
It is good for breastfeeding mothers to remember that the quality and quantity of the food and drink they consume matters. Eating healthy and balanced meals throughout the day, drinking plenty of water, and getting enough rest are just as important as limiting consumption of caffeine.
More Than One Right Answer
At the end of the day, there’s no one definitive answer in regards to whether or not breastfeeding mothers should drink coffee. It’s important for breastfeeding mothers to make their own decision, taking into consideration all the factors outlined in this article
There are potential benefits of drinking coffee, with some research indicating that moderate intake of caffeine can help mothers stay alert and focused, and help with their overall well-being too. On the other hand, it’s worth noting that too much caffeine is not good for the body.
Ultimately, moderate intake of caffeine is likely to be fine for breastfeeding mothers, but it still is advisable to speak to a health care professional and get tailored advice if in doubt.
Interesting Journeys Around the World with Coffee
While drinking coffee while breastfeeding certainly has its health and safety considerations, it doesn’t mean that it cannot be enjoyed. Traveling around the world and discovering different forms of coffee – be it preparation, cuisine or culture – can be a delight, exploration and educational journey.
In Brazil, coffee is enjoyed slow and steady, much like one savors a favorite wine. In Ethiopia, roast barley is also enjoyed as an alternative. Costa Rica is a hotspot for specialty coffee, and it’s not uncommon to find almost any flavor imaginable. In Indonesia, popularly known for its robusta beans, people enjoys a type of coffee called Kopi Luwak, which is brewed from beans picked from the Civet Cat’s poop!
In Italy, coffee is all about the espresso and the bitter undertones, the morning perk or the afternoon pick-me-up, and the sophisticated details of how to prepare the perfect cup. There are coffee tasting tours all over the world, coffee culture tours, and tours of coffee farms.
Despite the risks associated with consuming it while breastfeeding, coffee can be a fascinating journey with rich cultural nuances, as well as delicious flavors that give moments of joy!
Final Thoughts & Advice
In light of all the conflicting advice and personal stories out there, it is important to keep in mind that there is no single right answer when it comes to drinking coffee while breastfeeding.
It is important to remember that each mother should use her own judgement and discuss any concerns with her doctor or a qualified health care professional. At the end of the day, a mother knows what is best for her baby, and when it comes to drinking coffee while breastfeeding, it is always important to err on the side of caution.
