Considered by many to be a lifesaver, coffee can be hard to kick, especially during pregnancy. The jury is out on whether pregnant women should be cutting back or even completely cutting out coffee while they’re expecting. On the one hand, it’s a pick-me-up that can give you the kick you need to make it through a tired day; on the other hand, it’s a source of caffeine, which is known to be bad for pregnant women.
When it comes to coffee consumption during pregnancy, experts tend to advise pregnant individuals to moderate their consumption. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), coffee should be limited to no more than 200 mg of caffeine per day during pregnancy. That’s about one 12-ounce cup of coffee or two 8-ounce cups of coffee. The organization also warns pregnant individuals to avoid pre-ground coffee, as it may contain higher amounts of cafestol, a compound that can increase risk of miscarriage.
Some research has suggested that drinking more than 200 mg of caffeine per day during pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage or premature birth. Other research suggests that even moderate caffeine consumption can have an effect on the baby’s birth weight. Some of these studies are limited, however, and may not be fully reflective of real-world outcomes.
In addition to the potential risks to the developing baby, high amounts of caffeine during pregnancy can also increase the risk of heart palpitations and insomnia in the expectant mother. Studies have found that caffeine consumption can also increase the risk of hyperemesis gravidarum, a severe form of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.
Ultimately, there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to coffee consumption during pregnancy. Every individual’s needs, preferences, and circumstances are different. While some individuals may feel comfortable consuming moderate amounts of coffee during pregnancy, others may prefer to limit their coffee consumption or even avoid it altogether.
Risks of Drinking Coffee While Pregnant
For pregnant individuals who do choose to drink coffee, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with it. As previously mentioned, the ACOG recommends limiting caffeine intake to no more than 200 mg per day. Consuming more than this amount during pregnancy has been linked to increased risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and low birth weight in babies. Additionally, as caffeine is a stimulant, it can also cause increased heart rate, insomnia, and even hyperemesis gravidarum in the expectant mother.
The Benefits of Coffee During Pregnancy
While there may be risks associated with drinking coffee while pregnant, the beverage isn’t all bad. In fact, some studies suggest that moderate caffeine intake during pregnancy may actually have some benefits. For example, research has found that some pregnant individuals who drank moderate amounts of coffee were less likely to deliver a stillborn baby compared to expectant mothers who avoided coffee altogether.
In addition to potential health benefits, coffee may also help to improve mood. While pregnancy can be an exciting time, it can also be incredibly stressful. For many, a cup or two of coffee can help to provide a bit of a pick-me-up, helping them to manage their stress and anxiety more effectively.
How to Enjoy Coffee in Moderation During Pregnancy
If you decide to drink coffee while pregnant, it’s important to do so in moderation. As recommended by the ACOG, this means limiting your intake to no more than 200mg per day. One 12-ounce cup of coffee has about 95mg of caffeine and one 8-ounce cup has about 63mg. It can be helpful to keep track of your daily caffeine intake to ensure you’re not exceeding the recommended limit.
It’s also important to be mindful of the type of coffee you’re drinking. As previously mentioned, pre-ground coffee may not be the best choice for pregnant individuals, as it has a higher cafestol content than freshly ground coffee. Additionally, certain types of coffee drinks, such as frappuccinos, can contain very high amounts of caffeine, so it’s important to be aware of how much you’re consuming, as well as the types of beverages you’re drinking.
Overcoming cravings When Quitting Coffee
For some pregnant individuals, cutting back or quitting coffee altogether can be easier said than done. As with any habit, getting used to a coffee-free lifestyle takes time and patience. One of the best ways to curb cravings is to try to find alternatives that offer the same benefits.
For instance, if you’re looking for a pick-me-up, try a non-caffeinated herbal tea or decaffeinated coffee. If you’re looking for something with a bit more flavor, try experimenting with different syrups or mixes. Additionally, many coffee shops offer non-caffeinated drink options, such as ginger or turmeric latte, which can be a great alternative if you’re looking for something with a bit of a kick.
Making the Decision for Pregnancy Coffee Consumption
At the end of the day, the decision to cut back on or quit coffee while pregnant is a personal one. As is the case with all dietary decisions, it’s important to consult with your doctor or midwife to determine what’s best for you. They can discuss the potential risks associated with coffee consumption and help you make an informed decision.
Individuals Situation
Additionally, keep in mind your own individual situation. For some individuals, cutting back or quitting coffee altogether may be more practical than others. Every individual’s lifestyle and needs are unique, so it’s important to take this into account when making the decision to cut back or stop drinking coffee while pregnant.
Tracking Caffeine Intake
If you decide to drink coffee while pregnant, it’s important to keep track of your daily caffeine intake. Caffeine can build up in the body, so it’s important to keep track of how much you’re consuming. The easiest way to do this is to keep a journal and track the amount consumed on a daily basis.
Conclusion
Overall, the decision to drink coffee while pregnant is a personal one that should be considered carefully. With the potential increase in risk associated with high caffeine consumption, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks, as well as the benefits that may come with drinking coffee while expecting. Ultimately, it’s important to discuss the decision with your doctor or midwife and make an informed decision that’s best for you and your baby.
