Coffee has always been a popular morning beverage, but for mothers who are breastfeeding, there is a lot of conflicting information out there on whether they should drink coffee while nursing. This makes it difficult to navigate the science and know what is right. A lot of the advice around coffee and breastfeeding comes down to personal preference, but there is still lots to consider and know.
According to Dr. Brenden Smith, a pediatrician specializing in breastfeeding, it is important to consider the amount of caffeine in the coffee. Caffeine is passed through the breast milk, and it can build up in babies over time. While there is no standard definition of a “safe” amount of caffeine for a little one, experts generally agree that a moderate amount should be fine. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises that breastfeeding mothers limit their intake of caffeine to no more than 300 mg a day, which is about three 8-ounce cups of regular coffee. So when it comes to caffeine, moderation is the key for the safety of your baby.
It is also beneficial to consider the makeup of the coffee itself. Breastfeeding mothers should limit their intake of artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, saccharin, and sucralose. These have been linked to negative effects on babies who are exposed to them through the mother’s milk. Also, the National Institutes of Health recommends that pregnant and nursing mothers avoid coffee beans which have been treated with the pesticide benzoic acid, as it can affect the baby’s growth.
The type of coffee you opt for is important too. Frappuccino drinks usually contain either cream or ice-cream, which can be difficult for babies to digest. When a baby is served with a higher fat content, it can slow down digestion and can be difficult for them to process. Coffee drinks containing dairy or nut milks or creamers may not be a good option either as these can produce digestive issues for some babies.
In making decisions about coffee and breastfeeding, it’s important to look at the bigger picture. Research shows that eating healthy of mothers can have a positive influence on the baby. So it is important that a mother maintains an overall healthy diet while breastfeeding. It’s always recommended to drink plenty of water, get enough rest, eat nutritious foods, and practice mindful eating.
Ultimately, the decision whether to drink coffee while breastfeeding is up to the individual mother. But it is important to understand the facts and make an informed decision to ensure the safety and well-being of your baby.
Effects of caffeine on the baby
Most studies show that the amount of caffeine passing through the breast milk is low, and most babies are able to metabolize it quickly, so there are usually not any long-term affects. However, some research has found that caffeine consumption by a breastfeeding mother can affect the baby in some short-term ways. Babies exposed to caffeine through the mother’s breast milk may be more agitated and irritable, have difficulty sleeping, and may experience digestive discomfort.
For some mothers, maintaining a moderate caffeine intake may be difficult. Caffeine can stay in the body much longer than other foods and drinks, so it can be difficult to keep track of how much a mother has had over a certain period of time. It is important to be honest with oneself and make sure to not over-indulge – as with anything, moderation is key.
It is not recommended that mothers completely cut caffeine out of their diets while breastfeeding if they enjoy it and can do so in moderation. But if the effects of caffeine on the baby can be observed, it may be time to consider dialing back and trying to have a more balanced and healthy lifestyle.
Individual sensitivities
It is also important to remember that all babies are different, and may have individual sensitivities to caffeine, artificial sweeteners, and certain types of coffee. It best to pay attention to the signals just like a mom would for any other food or drink. If the baby is showing signs of discomfort like fussiness, difficulty sleeping, or diaper rash, it could be worth considering reducing or eliminating coffee from the diet.
Additionally, if the mother notices that the baby is more responsive to foods consumed by the mother and these reactions tend to occur within a short time of the mother drinking or consuming certain elements that could constitute a risk for the baby, it is important to err on the side of caution and eliminate those items. This could range from caffeine to other substances like artificial sweetener or heavy cream.
It is also worth considering that some of the side effects of caffeine on the baby can be similar to other things like teething or sleep deprivation, so it is important to rule these out before attributing any signs of discomfort wholly to caffeine. Paying close attention to how the baby is reacting and how long it takes after consuming the coffee, can help to diagnose the problem.
Benefits for the mother
While all of the aforementioned considerations are important and relevant to consider, it’s also important to remember that breastfeeding is hard, and sometimes mothers need something to keep them going. A small cup of coffee can provide a much-needed energy boost in the morning, allowing the mother to get through the day with a bit more ease.
It is important to take time to look after oneself and practice self-care, not just as a breastfeeding mom, but as a person. This can really help in keeping up the energy and momentum required to maintain such an important responsibility.
Coffee does not have to be completely avoided; however, it is important to remember to be mindful about the amount of caffeine consumed, the source of it and what other ingredients are present. And above all, it is essential to remain attentive to the signs that the baby may give in order to best take care of them.
Alternative methods
It is important for mothers to find ways to keep themselves awake and energized, regardless of whether they choose to drink coffee or not. Exercise, a healthy diet, and being intentional about rest can all help. Additionally, there are natural alternatives to coffee which can provide much-needed boosts in energy without the risk of overdoing it on the caffeine.
Some of these can include teas, sparkling water, herbal infusions, and juices. Matcha tea is a great substitute as it contains a fraction of the amount of caffeine that is found in coffee, and it is packed with antioxidants. Coconut water also provides a great boost of hydration and minerals, enough to keep you refreshed and energized throughout the day.
Taking regular breaks throughout the day and allowing oneself a moment of stillness can be just what a mother needs to keep her energy levels up. Meditation and yoga can also help to increase the energy levels, clear the mind, and allow a person to practice some self-care. There are also many apps that provide guided meditations for a variety of situations, including for relaxation and energy.
Lifestyle changes
It can also be helpful to make some changes to the lifestyle in order to help with managing energy levels. Adequate sleep is essential for a mother’s health, so setting a regular sleep schedule and creating a routine can aid in making sure that everyone in the family gets enough rest.
It can also help to reach out and ask for help. Having friends, family, or even a mother’s group to lean on can be extremely beneficial in times of need. The support of others can help to make the journey of parenting more manageable and less stressful.
Trust your instincts
At the end of the day, the decision as to whether or not to drink coffee while breastfeeding is a personal one, and only the mother can make the right decision for her and her baby. There are a lot of considerations to make, but ultimately what matters most is adhering to the baby’s needs and the mother’s instinct. As long as these two key elements are taken into account, any decision that is reached will be a good one.
