Do you find yourself reliant on caffeine during pregnancy? Many women rely on a cup of coffee or other caffeinated beverages in the morning to stay alert and motivated for work. However, dependence on caffeine can develop similarly to tolerance for other substances like drugs or alcohol. Over time, you may find yourself needing larger doses to achieve the same level of alertness and mood enhancement. While caffeinated beverages are generally safe for most people, pregnant women should exercise caution.
When you’re pregnant, your body develops a new organ called the placenta, which plays a crucial role in transferring nutrients and oxygen to the fetus. While the placenta limits the transfer of some nutrients, substances like caffeine and alcohol can cross it and reach the fetus. Caffeine, a natural stimulant, has the potential to affect the baby’s developing brain, central nervous system, and heart rate. Therefore, it’s advisable to consume caffeine in moderation during pregnancy.
How Much Caffeine Can I Safely Consume Each Day During Pregnancy?
All pregnant moms should limit their caffeine intake to 200 mg per day. Remember, stick to 200 mg.
Caffeine can be found not only in coffee but also in…
✔️ Tea
✔️ Chocolate
✔️ Energy drink
✔️ Some cough and flu medicine
✔️ Soft drinks like cola
How to determine the amount of caffeine in food or drinks? Below is information shared by Dr. Muhammad Izzat, an OB-GYN doctor:
✔️ 1 cup of instant coffee: 100 mg
✔️ 1 cup of filter coffee: 140 mg
✔️ 1 cup of Tea: 75 mg
✔️ 1 can of Coca Cola (375g): 40 mg
✔️ 1 Tin Energy Drink (250 ml): can be available up to 80 mg
✔️ 1 Bar Plain Chocolate (50 GM): maybe less than 25 mg
✔️ 1 Bar Milk Chocolate (50 GM): maybe less than 10 mg
So, if a pregnant mom can only consume 200 mg of caffeine a day, then she can enjoy less than the below amount in a day:
✔️ 2 cups of tea and 1 can of Coca-Cola, OR
✔️ 1 cup of instant coffee and 1 tin (250 ml) energy drink, OR
✔️ 2 cups of instant coffee
What Causes Caffeine?
Excessive caffeine intake during pregnancy can harm your baby, increasing the risk of miscarriage before week 20 of pregnancy or having a baby with low birth weight. You may wonder why caffeine can harm your growing baby when it is okay for you. Your baby is still developing organs, especially the kidneys, and may not be able to metabolize the caffeine.
Pregnant mothers are advised to avoid caffeine intake in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. After 12 weeks, limit caffeine intake to up to 200 mg per day if you can’t go without a drink. If you occasionally consume more than the recommended amount of caffeine, don’t worry. The solution? It’s better to replace these caffeinated drinks with fruit juice or other decaffeinated options. Also, please consult your doctor before taking any medication as it may contain caffeine as well.
Leave a Reply