For many moms-to-be, coffee is more than just a drink. It’s a lifestyle staple. As coffee contains caffeine, a powerful stimulant for the body, the question many pregnant mums may ask is , “Will caffeine harm my baby? Do I have to give up my morning brew?”
Caffeine increases your heart rate and boosts energy levels. It can cross the placenta and affect the fetus. Over the years, people have been concerned about whether it may affect fetal brain development.
Earlier studies have shown that increased coffee consumption during pregnancy is associated with the child having neurodevelopmental difficulties. These may include difficulties with language, motor skills, attention, hyperactivity and impulsive behavior. Since developing babies aren’t able to process caffeine as efficiently as adults, high amounts may lead to these issues.
However, recent research which looked at 58,694 Norwegian mothers over 2 decades has found no causal link between drinking coffee during pregnancy and the child’s neurodevelopmental difficulties. That means it is safe to keep drinking coffee. According to international guidelines, low to moderate consumption is safe for the mother and developing baby. For most people, that means sticking to below 200mg of caffeine per day – which is roughly equivalent to one 12-ounce cup of coffee.
What Does 200 Milligrams Look Like?
A typical 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee contains about 95 milligrams of caffeine, while a 12-ounce cup contains around 140 milligrams. So, as long as you stick to around 12 ounces or less per day, you are good to go.
But caffeine isn’t just in coffee. If you drink tea, nibble on chocolate, or gulp down a soda drink, you are consuming caffeine, too. A 12-ounce can of soda has about 35 milligrams of caffeine, and a cup of black tea contains roughly 47 milligrams. If you love energy drinks, you might want to be extra careful—some can contain 200 milligrams or more per serving.
The Perks of Coffee During Pregnancy
For many women, a daily coffee break is good for their mental wellness. Coffee can bring a sense of calm and normalcy, especially during a time when pregnancy is causing so many changes in the body.
Exhaustion is common especially in the later part of pregnancy. A cup of coffee can be of help when you are battling fatigue or trying to stay focused during your daily routine.
Tips for Enjoying Coffee Safely
While moderate coffee intake is safe, there are a few tips you can keep in mind to ensure you’re staying on track with your caffeine consumption:
Chart Your Caffeine Intake: Keep an eye on all sources of caffeine, not just your coffee. Make a note of teas, chocolate, and sodas you might be consuming throughout the day.
Try Decaffeinated coffee: If you’re someone who loves the ritual of coffee but wants to lower your caffeine intake, decaffeinated coffee is a great option
Change to alternatives: You can swap your coffee for an alternative like herbal teas, a smoothie, or a caffeine-free latte.
Sip Smart, Stay Relaxed
Pregnancy is a time full of changes, but you do not have to give up coffee completely. A daily cup of coffee is more than just a caffeine boost—it is a moment of “me time,” a ritual that brings joy. As long as you keep it to one or two cups a day, you can enjoy your brew without guilt.
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