Most new mothers have heard the debate about drinking coffee while nursing. While the risks of drinking coffee are generally understood, there is less consensus on whether it is safe for breastfeeding mothers. For many women, the idea of eliminating coffee entirely isn’t doable—so the question becomes, how much can you safely drink while breastfeeding?
The fact is, caffeine is present in breastmilk. Any caffeine-containing beverage can enter the bloodstream of both mother and child in as little as 15 minutes. Studies suggest that when a mother consumes caffeine, approximately 25 percent of the total amount consumed is transferred to the infant. To complicate matters, caffeine has different effects on different people and sensitivities can vary, making it difficult to draw a hard-and-fast rule.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends limiting caffeine intake to less than 200 mg or the equivalent of one to two cups of coffee per day for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Furthermore, the World Health Organization (WHO) suggests a daily caffeine intake of no more than 300 mg for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
It is important to keep in mind that caffeine can also be found in sources other than coffee. Energy drinks, tea, chocolate, decaffienated coffee and soda all contain varying levels of caffeine. Even though caffeine levels in these substances are lower than that of regular coffee, it is still necessary to understand their cumulative effects, particularly when consumed daily.
In addition to the physiological implications, some doctors suggest that mothers limit caffeine intake out of concern for upsetting a baby’s sleep patterns. Babies can be more sensitive to the effects of caffeine, and consuming coffee in the late afternoon can make it difficult for them to settle into a healthy sleep routine.
Although the risks associated with moderate caffeine intake while breastfeeding are still unclear, exercise caution when drinking coffee while nursing—it’s likely safest to stay within the daily caffeine limit recommended by the ACOG and WHO. This can help to ensure that a baby’s sleep pattern, breathing and development remain healthy.
Drinking Coffee May Affect Babies’ Weight
A cluster of studies suggest that babies may gain weight differently when their mothers drank coffee during breastfeeding. A 2019 study conducted by researchers at the University of Calgary found a correlation between newborns’ excessive weight gain and their mothers who drank caffeine during breastfeeding. While the research is still in its infancy, it indicates that maternal caffeine intake may be linked to poorer weight outcomes in infants.
Experiments conducted with lab mice also showed a link between maternal caffeine intake and enhanced food preference in babies. More research is needed to clearly establish the effects of caffeine on babies’ weight gain, but it is worth considering before pouring a cup of coffee while nursing.
Drinking Decaffeinated Coffee May Still Pose Risks
Many mothers are enticed by the idea of decaffeinated coffee as an alternative to caffeinated. However, the process used to decaffeinate the beans does not always mean the coffee is completely free of caffeine. Some batches may still have high residual concentrations of caffeine that can be transferred to your baby.
What’s more, decaffeinated beans may still contain high levels of mold, chemical agents, or synthetics that could cause side effects in both mother and baby. Some of these chemicals have been linked to neurological problems and a 2015 study from Sweden linked decaf coffee to childhood asthma.
Given the potential for harm, it’s important to be aware that decaffeinated coffee may not be a healthier option than regular coffee while breastfeeding. It’s best to choose the type of coffee based on both the benefit and potential risks to you and your baby.
Using Moderation and Other Strategies to Combat Caffeine Intake
Because it is unclear how a wide range of servings can affect babies, the safest way to enjoy caffeine while breastfeeding is to do so in moderation. Fortunately, there are a few strategies that mothers can employ in order to avoid exceeding moderation.
Most experts suggest spacing out caffeine consumption throughout the day so that the maternal and child bloodstreams are not overwhelmed. Choosing cold brew instead of hot can also reduce the amount of caffeine a mother takes in, as cold brew contains less caffeine than regular coffee per serving. Additionally, some lactation consultants recommend sticking to one cup per day which can help to ensure you’re not consuming more than the recommended guidelines.
Alternative Sources of Energy
With the potential risks of caffeine consumption in mind, it’s important to explore alternative sources of energy while breastfeeding. Instead of reaching for another cup of coffee, try incorporating a few tried-and-true techniques for boosting energy into your daily routine.
Regular exercise, eating a well-balanced diet, and drinking plenty of water can provide the necessary energy to get through the day. Taking a few brief breaks throughout the day—even if it’s just for a few minutes—can also provide time for the body to relax and restore itself. Removing unhealthy habits, such as late-night snacks, can also help to remove any guilt associated with caffeine consumption while nursing.
Consider Effects of Caffeine on Babies Before Having A Cup
In the end, the decision to drink coffee while breastfeeding is a very personal one. It’s important to weigh both the pros and cons and consider how certain doses of caffeine can affect both mother and baby. Ultimately, the best guideline to follow is that recommended by the ACOG and WHO, and to opt for cold-brew coffee when possible.
Potential Issues and Effects on Milk Production
Although research is vast when it comes to coffee and pregnancy, the topic is far less explored when it comes to breastfeeding. Studies have shown that caffeine can affect a mother’s milk supply by reducing the amount of prolactin and oxytocin produced in the body.
According to research recently published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, caffeine intake during breastfeeding reduces a mother’s milk production. This can last up to 48 hours after the original exposure and may be more pronounced in mothers who are already struggling to maintain their supply.
To avoid this potential problem, most experts recommend limiting caffeine intake to one cup per day or less. Drinking coffee at least six hours prior to breastfeeding can also reduce any potential impact on the baby and avoid affecting their sleep.
Always Check with a Medical Professional
It is impossible to predict exactly how a baby will react to caffeine and what the long-term effects might be. If a mother has questions, the best approach is to check with her doctor for specific advice about her individual health and her baby’s health.
Caffeine is everywhere and mothers should not feel guilty if they do decide to have a cup of coffee while breastfeeding. Working with your doctor to understand the risks and how to manage them is the best way to ensure that both you and your baby are safe and healthy.
