Consequences Of Caffeine Consumption During Pregnancy
Coffee contains caffeine, a stimulant that has been linked to several health complications in pregnant women and their babies. The Journal of Addiction Medicine published a report in 2016 revealing the effects that coffee consumption has on expecting mothers and their unborn children. Caffeinated drinks, such as coffee, can increase the risk of fetal development complications, including an increased risk of having a low birth weight baby. Additionally, these beverages have been associated with a heightened risk for miscarriage, giving birth to a baby with a neural tube defect, and reduced fertility.
Caffeine consumption during pregnancy can cross the placenta and enter the fetal circulation, overwhelming the baby’s immature metabolic system. Depending on the extent of the caffeine consumption, a baby can be affected not just during pregnancy, but in the future too. Research has linked high caffeine levels during pregnancy to neurological and psychological disorders that persist into infancy, childhood and adulthood, including obstacles in communication, learning, attention and control.
In addition to reducing caffeine intake during pregnancy, doctors advise pregnant women to take time for naps where possible, eat healthily and take part in light exercise and prenatal yoga. The latter has been found to help with mental and physical health, decreasing stress and aiding the overall pregnancy experience.
Official Caffeine Intake Guidelines For Pregnant Women
Though many health professionals caution against drinking coffee during pregnancy, 2 to 3 cups of caffeine a day is deemed to be acceptable by most countries. The European Food Safety Authority recommends that expecting or breastfeeding mothers consume no more than 200mg of caffeine per day, which is the equivalent of no more than two small mugs of instant coffee.
Women should steer clear of energy drinks altogether, as these are known to contain high levels of caffeine. High-Caffeine supplements, as well as herbal teas (up to two cups daily) also need to be avoided during pregnancy, as some ofthese are thought to be harmful to an unborn baby’s development.
Caring For Yourself During Pregnancy
Eating healthily during pregnancy is essential and will ensure the mother is providing essential nutrients to the baby. For maximum nutritional value, pregnant women should instead opt for decaffeinated coffee or herbal teas. Doctors recommend that pregnant women monitor their caffeine intake and make sure to stick to the recommended daily amount. If expecting mothers have doubts about what beverages are okay for pregnancy, they should consult their doctor for specialist advice.
Though caffeine consumption during pregnancy should be reduced and monitored, it is not necessary that an expecting mother abstain from coffee completely. Pregnant women who wish to maximize their health should be sure to practice mindful consumption, drinking coffee in moderation, and sticking to the 2-3 cups of coffee recommended by health professionals.
Mitigating Other Pregnancy Complications
High-caffeine foods and drinks should not be consumed during pregnancy due to the high levels of caffeine present, but this doesn’t mean that expecting mothers should not seek pleasure in other foods. Health professionals advise that expecting mothers opt for alternatives such as decaffeinated coffee, and tea. There are also natural options such as fresh and dried fruits and nuts, which contain essential vitamins and minerals, and can help to prevent cramps and constipation.
Moreover, expecting mothers should look to incorporate foods high in vitamin D and Calcium into their diet. Milk, yogurt, and cheese are all great sources of Calcium, and when accompanied with a balanced diet, are thought to be beneficial for both mother and child. Supplementing the diet with vitamin D tablets or drops can also be beneficial, though they should not be taken in place of a healthy, balanced diet.
The importance of Prenatal Care
Though many people rely on the internet to diagnose and understand various ailments, pregnant women should book at least one prenatal doctor’s appointment during the first trimester of their pregnancy. This appointment should be used to discuss further care for the expecting mother, with her doctor providing treatment and advice related to her specific medical situation. Prenatal care is recommended in order to prevent any potential complications and provide guidance throughout the pregnancy.
During prenatal doctor visits, the medical professional will also establish any risk factors that the woman may be predisposed to and develop appropriate tests and examinations to monitor the wellbeing of mother and baby. The doctor can also provide advice about other foods and beverages to be consumed during pregnancy and provide information on the safest prenatal drinks and supplements to take.
The Health Benefits of Moderate 8Oz. Coffee Intake
Though studies have found a link between caffeine consumption and health complications in pregnant women, there are, in fact, health benefits to moderate coffee intake. Caffeine has been considered safe for pregnant women, according to a study published by the Mayo Clinic. In the study, pregnant women were found to have a reduced risk of developing gestational diabetes when they consumed 8oz. of caf-feine daily.
Coffee is also known to contain antioxidants and beneficial compounds, allowing the body to fight against diseases and health conditions. Furthermore, regular moderate coffee intake has been found to have cognitive benefits, with expecting mothers indicating that it increases alertness and aids memory.
Assessing Risk Factors When Consuming Coffee
It is important for expecting mothers to assess their own unique circumstanc-es when deciding whether to consume coffee or not. Those who are at high risk of having a low-birthweight baby due to pre-existing medical conditions or lifestyle habits should consider abstaining altogether. Women with fertility and ovulation issues, as well as those with a history of miscarriages, should also look to reduce their caffeine intake during pregnancy.
In addition, expecting mothers should take into account any medication they may be taking. Combining medication with the effects of caffeine can increase the amount of clinically active substances that enter the bloodstream. Women who are being treated with heavy medication should look to abstain from consuming coffee during pregnancy.
Conclusion
Though women are advised to reduce their caffeine intake during pregnancy, moderate coffee consumption is deemed to be safe. It is important for expecting mothers to assess their individual risk factors and practice mindful consumption, staying within the 200mg of caffeine limit per day, as advised by healthcare professionals. With the right guidance, expectant mothers can reap the potential health benefits of ‘moderate’ coffee consumption, drinking responsibly and getting the most out of their pregnancy.
