Whether it is the afternoon crash or the daily fix, coffee has been the go-to beverage for many during the lengthy moments of exhaustion. But, while the average adult can enjoy the many benefits of caffeinated beverages, pregnant women must consider the impact it can have on their baby as well. Consider both sides of the debate as this article looks into the pros and cons of consuming coffee during pregnancy, and ultimately answer the question is it healthier to drink or not drink coffee while pregnant?
Coffee’s primary ingredient is caffeine, which acts as a stimulant. In small doses, caffeine can heighten alertness, improve aspect for activities and even lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. In the opposite direction, caffeine can increase heart rate, worsen anxiety and irritability, and interfere with sleeping patterns. For pregnant women, the effects of caffeine is magnified.
The primary concern while pregnant is not just coffee’s concentration of caffeine, but the lack of control there is to how much and how frequently one consumes it. A woman must limit caffeine intake to prevent any potential risks to the unborn baby, according to the World Health Organization. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists also recommends caffeine intake be limited to 200 milligrams per day. That is about equal to 1 8-ounce cup of coffee.
On the positive side, caffeine can help pregnant women have concentration, reduce morning sickness and fatigue, increasing their overall energy and the daily coffee. In the more extreme cases, coffee is an effective anti-depressant and a welcome addition even during the pregnancy. In addition, coffee is an antioxidant, linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases, and can act as a natural source of dietary fiber.
On the flip side, excessive caffeine by pregnant women can increase the risk of miscarriage. Not to mention, caffeine also passes through the placenta and enters the baby’s blood stream too. High levels of caffeine can lead to low birth weight and premature delivery as well. The fetus is also not able to utilize or break down the caffeine as efficiently, making it less healthy for the baby.
Healthcare professionals, researchers, and the general public debate is it healthier to drink or not drink coffee during pregnancy. On the one hand, it depends on the amount of coffee you consume, the kind of coffee you’re drinking (decaf vs. not decaf), and most importantly, the health of the mother. On the other hand, there is some evidence that finds a link between excessive caffeine consumption and high-risk pregnancy outcomes, so moderation is always a key factor. That is why doctors are also pushing for more research on the impact that drinking coffee during pregnancy has on the baby.
Coffee Alternatives During Pregnancy
Many pregnant women find they have a hard time cutting back on their morning cup of joe, so they turn to coffee alternatives that low on caffeine but still satisfy their cravings. Decaffeinated coffee is a popular option since it usually has fewer than five milligrams of caffeine per cup. Herbal teas are another popular alternative, and there are many on the market that are blended specifically for pregnant women.
Many of these products use a combination of herbs, vitamins and other natural ingredients to help provide energy, support the immune system and curb morning sickness. Caffeine-free options like chicory root, barley, dandelion root, and licorice may be found in some of the teas.
Finally, many are now turning to adaptogens, which offer a safe and natural way to improve energy and adrenal health without the use of caffeine. Commonly called adaptogenic herbs, these plant found in nature are believed to help fight or prevent disease. Common adaptogens for women during pregnancy are Ashwagandha, Rhodiola Rosea, and Reishi.
Venturing Into the Unknown
Recent studies have found that caffeine intake can affect pregnancy in a variety of ways, and the degree of influence largely varies from woman to woman. Many women, however, worry that they may not find out the true impact of their caffeine consumption until the baby is born.
At this moment, the various side-effects of drinking coffee during pregnancy remain largely unknown as there is no way to measure the exact amount of caffeine consumed by the pregnant mother and any potential effects it may have on their baby. For this reason, many experts believe that it is best for pregnant women to avoid drinking coffee until more research has been done.
Further Considerations
Since caffeine can also be found in other beverages besides coffee, such as sodas, chocolate and energy drinks, pregnant women should avoid these products as much as possible. In addition, many caffeinated foods, like tea, candy and chocolate can be consumed without the drink, so a pregnant woman must also bear this into account.
Besides the caffeine content, coffee can also be rather acidic, something that could create stomach discomfort during pregnancy. Therefore, pregnant women may want to stay away from black coffee and instead focus on decaffeinated and low acid coffee during their pregnancy.
Be Sure to Track Caffeine Intake
Although the effects of caffeine on pregnancy are currently unknown, healthcare experts recommend tracking your intake while pregnant. This means, measuring out the exact amount of coffee you’re drinking first and foremost. In addition, adding milk and cream to your cup of coffee can help reduce the amount of caffeine you are consuming.
When it comes to the health of your baby, it is always wiser to err on the side of caution, so it is best to consult your doctor about caffeine intake before and during pregnancy. The most common recommendation is to stay below 200 milligrams of caffeine per day.
What Other Women Have Experienced
Overall, it is important to remember that every woman is different in terms of their pregnancy experiences. The impact of drinking coffee while pregnant can also depend on individual health, as well as genetics and lifestyle.
Some women have found that drinking coffee during pregnancy helped them fend off depression and fatigue, while others have had difficulty sleeping and found their morning sickness worsened. In the end, it all depends on the amount of caffeine that is being consumed and the individual’s reaction to the beverage.
Making the Decision
When it boils down to the debate of “Should I drink coffee during pregnancy?”, the answer is not an easy one. Ultimately, pregnant women need to weigh both the pros and cons of coffee while also consulting with their health professionals.
At the end of the day, coffee can be a great source of energy and mental clarity, but it can also lead to various side-effects. For most pregnant women, the best option is to avoid coffee in its entirety or limit consumption to decaffeinated beverages to reduce the risk of any potential harm.
