Pros of Drinking Coffee While Trying to Conceive
It is important to remember that it is generally healthy to drink coffee while trying to conceive. Moderate intake of caffeinated beverages while attempting to become pregnant appears to have no effect on the chances of becoming pregnant or on the health of the fetus when consumption is limited to two or fewer cups a day, according to a study published in the journal Fertility and Sterility.
Some studies suggest that when it comes to fertility, coffee may even help. One study, for example, found that women who drank at least three cups of coffee per day had 25% higher odds of becoming pregnant than those who did not drink coffee at all.
Coffee provides an energy boost and helps with focus, so drinking it while trying to conceive can be beneficial. Furthermore, the antioxidants and other compounds in coffee can be beneficial to overall health. As such, drinking coffee can provide a positive contribution to fertility and health when done in moderation.
Cons of Drinking Coffee While Trying to Conceive
As with anything health related, it is important to keep in mind that too much of any one thing can be detrimental for your health. Too much coffee, for example, has been linked to fertility issues. A study published in Nutrients found that when caffeine intake exceeds 200 mg per day, it can lead to negative fertility outcomes.
In addition, drinking too much coffee puts one at risk for a variety of different health issues. Studies have linked excessive coffee consumption to increased risk of heart disease and stroke, as well as increased risk for miscarriage. Therefore, it is important to limit the amount of coffee consumed if trying to become pregnant.
Precautions to Take When Drinking Coffee While Trying to Conceive
If drinking coffee while trying to conceive, it is important to take certain precautions. Firstly, opt for a cleaner source of coffee. Unfiltered coffee, such as espresso, contains high levels of cholesterol-raising diterpenes, whereas filtered coffee has had these compounds removed. Therefore, it would be wise to stick to filtered coffee varieties.
Secondly, ensure adequate intake of fluids and nutritional intake. Due to its acidic nature, the body needs more fluids to process caffeine effectively. Caffeine also has a diuretic effect, which can lead to dehydration, so it is important to drink plenty of water in order to counteract this. Additionally, some research suggests that caffeine can block the absorption of vital vitamins and minerals. Therefore, it is important to ensure adequate intake of these nutrients when drinking caffeinated beverages.
Finally, make sure to consult with a doctor regarding any questions or concerns related to fertility or drinking caffeinated beverages while trying to conceive.
The Impact of Coffee on Hormones Involved in Fertility
It is important to be aware of the ways in which caffeine and other substances in coffee can potentially impact hormones involved in fertility.
Caffeine, for example, can increase cortisol levels. While cortisol is an important hormone, elevated cortisol levels for extended periods of time can lead to disruptions in other hormone levels, negatively impacting fertility. In addition, caffeine can block adenosine, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep. Disruptions in sleep can lead to decreased fertility.
One study found that caffeine intake of more than 500 mg per day was associated with higher levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and a decrease in levels of estrogen and progesterone—two hormones that are important for conception and early pregnancy.
The Bottom Line
While moderate intake of caffeinated beverages appears to have no negative effect on one’s fertility, it is important to remember that too much caffeine can have a negative effect. In order to ensure optimal health and fertility, it is best to limit caffeine intake to two or fewer cups a day.
When drinking coffee while trying to conceive, it is wise to opt for a cleaner source of coffee, ensure adequate fluid intake and proper nutrition, and consult a doctor regarding any questions or concerns. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the ways in which caffeine and other substances in coffee can potentially impact hormones involved in fertility.
The Impact of Coffee on the Fetus
Once conception has occurred, it is still important to be aware of potential risks associated with drinking coffee. While moderate consumption of coffee does not appear to have an effect on the fetus, excessive consumption has been linked to a range of issues.
Studies have found that consumption of more than 200 mg of caffeine per day has been linked to higher risk of miscarriage, stillbirths, and preterm delivery. In addition, studies have linked higher consumption of coffee to lower birth weight, reduced skeletal length and head circumference, as well as impaired neurobehavioral development in infants.
Given these potential risks, it is important to limit coffee consumption after conception has occurred.
How to Reduce Coffee Intake
Reducing coffee intake is easier said than done for many. Luckily, there are easy ways to reduce consumption without giving it up completely.
Instead of drinking four cups of coffee a day, for example, consider drinking two. Additionally, switching to a half-caff or decaf blend can be helpful if trying to reduce consumption. Another option is to swap out coffee for lower-caffeine options, such as tea or herbal teas.
In addition, there are also certain lifestyle changes that can help reduce coffee consumption. Choose foods that can help provide sustained energy, such as whole grains and nuts. Increase intake of B vitamins, which help to increase energy levels. And make sure to get enough sleep, as this will help to reduce reliance on coffee for energy.
The Impact of Coffee on Breastfeeding
When it comes to consuming caffeinated beverages while breastfeeding, moderate consumption is generally considered to be safe. However, it is important to note that caffeine can enter into breast milk, and excessive consumption may result in negative reactions from the infant.
Therefore, if breastfeeding, it is important to limit caffeine intake to no more than two or three cups per day, and to be aware of potential reactions in the infant. Caffeine can cause the infant to become irritable, have difficulty falling asleep, or have a decrease in appetite. Therefore, if the infant has any of these reactions, it is wise to reduce caffeine intake. Additionally, do not give caffeinated beverages to children under the age of one year old.
Conclusion
As with anything health related, moderation is key. When it comes to drinking coffee while trying to conceive, it is important to remember that moderate intake of caffeinated beverages appears to have no effect on the chances of becoming pregnant. However, it is best to limit caffeine intake to two or fewer cups a day, and to take other precautionary measures such as choosing a cleaner source of coffee and ensuring adequate hydration and nutrition. Similarly, if breastfeeding, it is important to be aware of potential reactions in the infant, and to limit intake to no more than two or three cups per day. In the end, by following these simple guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the benefits of coffee without compromising health.
