The Effects Of Caffeine On The Baby While Breastfeeding – You Are Mom
Many mothers like to drink coffee at different times of the day. But they don’t know exactly what the effects of caffeine are on the baby. During pregnancy, excessive caffeine consumption is directly related to the risk of miscarriage, premature labor and low birth weight babies.
Once the baby is born, there are also a lot of myths related to the effects of caffeine on the baby during the breastfeeding period. As you begin this step, it is normal for you to wonder what can cause coffee to your baby. Although this drink is not considered prohibited, it is important to know that it can reach the baby through breast milk. In fact, some experts recommend replacing coffee with water or natural juices.
The effects of caffeine on the baby while breastfeeding
Although specialists from the American Pediatric Association consider coffee to be a safe drink while breastfeeding, it can have several effects on a baby if consumed too much.
- Insomnia and other sleep related problems.
- Nervousness.
- Irritability.
To this, we must add that some babies are more sensitive than others to coffee consumption. As a result, these effects may be stronger in some infants than in others. Also, we have to remember that caffeine stays in your body much longer. Indeed, you are not yet able to eliminate it.
Coffee and breastfeeding studies
A recent study of the effects of caffeine on babies, published by the journal Pediatrics , concluded that if mothers consume a moderate amount of caffeine per day, babies’ mood and sleep will not be affected. This study was carried out in Brazil. In the latter, a total of 900 mothers were interviewed during the breastfeeding phase.
In addition, the study of Ina Santos from the Federal University of Pelotas, Brazil, determined that to reach this conclusion, 885 mothers were interviewed during the breastfeeding phase. She mainly investigated their caffeine intake and babies’ sleep quality at the age of three months. Most of the respondents said they had consumed coffee during pregnancy. In addition, about 14% confessed to their excessive consumption of caffeine while breastfeeding.
Researchers have not, however, found a direct relationship between caffeine consumption and babies’ sleep problems. Indeed, it would depend on the habits of each of them. But in the same way, they show that moderate caffeine consumption during pregnancy and breastfeeding can be safer for mother and baby.
How much coffee should you take while breastfeeding?
It has been shown that intake of 100 mg of caffeine per day generally does not cause detectable levels in breast milk. Experts recommend that the amount a mother can consume is 300 mg per day. In other words, 2 or 3 cups of coffee at most. And this, always by studying the amount of coffee used and the size of the cup.
If the recommended amount is followed, the baby will not receive large amounts of caffeine. They will therefore not be able to alter his sleep and his personality. This mainly happens with coffee. However, we must remember that other foods also contain caffeine. Therefore, we should always pay attention to the ingredients of prepared foods. We must also calculate how much caffeine our body receives during the day.
The baby’s body is usually very delicate. So getting too much caffeine can cause a lot of damage. Take care of your health and that of the baby by drinking coffee in moderation. Even if it sounds complicated, it’s just a matter of waiting a few months. Everything we love comes with a little sacrifice. Your baby deserves it and more.
