Myths About Drinking Coffee While Breastfeeding
Professional advice on drinking coffee whilst breastfeeding is often conflicting. Some disagree that coffee consumption while breastfeeding can be harmful in any way. However, it is important to have an informed opinion with regard to its safety and its potential risks. Here we will attempt to dispel some myths about coffee and breastfeeding.
Effects of Caffeine on the Baby
Studies have suggested that too much caffeine in a mother’s diet can transfer to her breast milk – potentially causing sleep disruption and affecting the baby’s concentration levels. This then gives rise to the question of how much is too much? Generally speaking, it is recommended that no more than 300mg of caffeine should be consumed by a breastfeeding mother each day. In order for this to be achieved, mothers should limit their coffee consumption to no more than two cups per day, as a caffeine cup can have anywhere between 50 to over 200 milligrams of the stimulant.
Intermittent Exposure is Ok
Moreover, while it is suggested that caffeine should be avoided during the night time breastfeeding session, occasional and intermittent exposure in the day is often considered ok. In other words, if the mother cuts back her coffee intake over the course of the day, the effect on the baby is generally deemed to be minimal. This is due to the fact that caffeine is quickly metabolised by the body.
The Link Between Coffee and Dehydration
It is not just the caffeine in coffee that mothers need to be concerned about. An important point to consider is that coffee has a fairly high level of diuretic properties. This could end up having an effect on the mother’s milk supply. This is because if a mother is dehydrated, this could possibly lead to a decreased production of breast milk, thus making it important for her to ensure that she gets her daily recommended water intake.
Coffee & Weight Loss
Some breastfeeding mothers find that caffeine has a beneficial effect as it can help to suppress their appetite – making it easier for them to lose their pregnancy weight. While this is one way of dealing with the issue, it is recommended that mothers consult with their doctor in order to ensure that they are following a healthy and balanced diet.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, when it comes to drinking coffee and breastfeeding, mothers should always consult with their healthcare provider and follow their advice. In this way, they can ensure that they are drinking the right amount of coffee and that the baby is getting all the necessary nutrition.
Recommendations & Alternatives to Coffee
Experts suggest that mothers should limit their caffeine intake, instead opting for herbal teas or decaffeinated coffee. Moreover, if mothers still experience sleep disruption, they could also take herbal options such as chamomile tea or use relaxation techniques. However, it is always best to check with a healthcare provider prior to taking any herbal products.
Choose Quality Based Coffee
If a mother decides to stick to her usual coffee intake, it is important to ensure that she is only consuming quality based coffee. This means avoiding all forms of instant coffee and making sure that the beans she is using are a good quality and fresh.
Sensitive to Caffeine
Additionally, mothers should take note if the baby has any signs of sensitivity to caffeine. Signs such as hyperactivity, restlessness or increased heart rate can indicate that a baby is sensitive to caffeine. If this is the case, it is best to cut down on the amount of coffee that the mother is drinking.
Seek Professional Advice
In summary, if a mother is considering drinking coffee while breastfeeding, it is important that she consults with her healthcare professional to ensure that both her and her baby are receiving the right nutritional balance. Additionally, it is important that she is aware that too much caffeine can have an effect on the baby’s sleep patterns.
Be Mindful of the Time of Day
Mothers should also be mindful of the time of day when they are consuming coffee. Non-caffeinated options are considered more ideal for during the night-time breastfeeding session. Caffeinated options can be consumed earlier during the day.
Choose Milk Alternatives with Care
When it comes to choosing a milk alternative for the coffees, it is best for mothers to opt for a non-dairy option such as soy, almond or rice milk. It is however important that when making these choices mothers pay careful attention to the labels to ensure that the product does not contain any added sugar.
Coffee in Moderation
In general, it is advised that mothers enjoy their coffee in moderation. This means monitoring the quantity and quality of coffee consumed and ensuring that they hydrate throughout the day. By doing this mothers can make sure that they and their babies are not affected by the potentially damaging effects of caffeine.
