Pregnancy is an awe-inspiring experience that brings forth numerous changes in the body. While taking utmost care of your health is a priority, there are foods and beverages that should be avoided for a safe and healthy pregnancy. Coffee is one of them, but should pregnant women lay off their beloved fuel during this exciting time?
Coffee contains caffeine, a stimulant that passes through the placenta to the fetus and increases the heart rate of both mother and baby. Caffeine can also reduce the blood flow to the uterus, which is necessary to provide oxygen and essential nutrients to the baby, thus affecting its development. As a result, pregnant women are advised to restrict their daily caffeine intake to less than 200 mg.
However, a moderate amount of coffee—usually one cup, up to 200 mg a day—may be okay. Along with other cravings during pregnancy, indulging in a cup of coffee might be alright if you really need it, however it is important to consult your doctor and follow their advice before making any changes to your diet.
Some studies have suggested that pregnant women drinking moderate amounts of coffee can increase risk for fetal growth restriction, spontaneous abortion, and preterm birth however clinical studies on this topic, especially of high-quality, are still scarce. This means that the evidence is yet inconclusive.
Whereas some experts agree that it is not wise for pregnant women to forgo their morning cup of joe, arguing that higher intakes of coffee could bring relief from symptoms such as morning sickness and exhaustion, others believe that there is no safe amount of caffeine consumption during pregnancy.
In order to be safe, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends women limit their intake up to 200 mg of caffeine a day. That equals to one 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee, though it is best to avoid added sugars and cream to get the caffeine without having to take extra-calories.
Nutrition is an important part of keeping you and your baby safe and healthy during pregnancy. Thus, you should always check with your obstetrician or midwife before changing your diet.
Caffeine Benefits
Although caffeine is not highly recommended during pregnancy, it has its own set of health benefits which can help pregnant women. For starters, many pregnant women need their daily cup of coffee to get through the fatigue and associated nausea. According to recent studies, a moderate amount of caffeine can help control harmful nausea and vomiting.
On the other hand, some researchers have found that caffeine might help women fight off depression. Despite the still inconclusive evidence, many pregnant women find the caffeine boosts the mood and their energy level. It also helps to reduce headaches.
Ergo, many women do enjoy their much-needed morning cup of coffee, although it is important to remember to consult doctors regarding intake.
Alternate Drinks for Pregnant Women
While coffee should certainly be taken in moderation, there are alternates that can take its place such a decaffeinated beverages, teas and less caffeinated beverages such as hot chocolate.
Decaf drinks are much safer but remember that they still have a small amount of caffeine. Green tea is also low in caffeine but it is not recommended in excess, as it might contain antioxidants that can be harmful to pregnant women.
When it comes to hot chocolate, it contains some caffeine and it is much better than coffee, taking into account its health benefits, like providing energy and vitamins from all the other ingredients.
Other interesting and delicious alternatives are lactose-free milks such as almond, macadamia, and coconut milks, as well as smoothies, fruit and vegetable juices, and drinks made of brewed oats.
Effects on the Baby
While it is important to consider the health of the mother, it is equally as important to consider the development of the baby.
Caffeine has been associated with low birth weight, preterm birth, and even birth defects in some cases. Research also suggests that it may affect the development of the baby’s brain – particularly with mental alertness, movement and sustained attention -when consumed in large amounts.
However, no clear evidence has yet been established and moderate coffee consumption is not yet proven to increase the risk of these negative effects on the baby. So, if drinking a cup of coffee helps manage morning sickness and other cravings, it probably wouldn’t harm, as long as it is kept in moderation.
Replacing Coffee
Coffee replacement may be difficult for some pregnant women, especially those who heavily rely on it for the much-needed energy kick.
When necessary, it is important to switch to low or decaffeinated coffee and opt for drinks that are rich in nutrients like vitamin D and calcium instead. These could include dairy products like skimmed milk as well as fortified foods such as whole grain cereals and bread.
Moreover, it is important to have a balanced and healthy diet, which means eating nutrition-rich foods and avoiding processed and junk food. Pregnancy is an important time and a balanced diet can help both mother and baby.
Pregnant women are also advised to drink plenty of water and have mini-meals throughout the day to keep energy levels up. Having regular exercise is also essential. Moderate walking, stretching and general weight training can help with any aching muscles and can prevent fatigue.
Caffeine Intake for Breastfeeding Mothers
Pregnant women should also remain conscious about their caffeine intake after giving birth. After delivery, many women switch their caffeinated beverages to decaffeinated versions to minimize the amount of caffeine that passes on to the baby through breast milk.
This might be a healthier way to simplify supply accuracy. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, it is usually safe for breastfeeding mothers to consume smaller amounts of caffeine – about 300 mg per day.
However, it is better to avoid excess consumption of caffeine as it can cause irritability, poor sleeping patterns and poor digestion in the child. It is best to consult your doctor or pediatrician to give the best advice on consumption of caffeine while breastfeeding.
Additionally, It is important to keep checking your baby for any signs of discomfort, such as projectile vomiting or prolonged crying. Also, those who notice lesser milk production or changes in the baby’s bowel movement may want to consider limiting their caffeine intake.
