The Effects Of Caffeine On Babies During Breastfeeding

Many mothers like to drink coffee or other caffeinated drinks during the day. However, they may not be aware of the effects of caffeine on their babies.

During pregnancy, excessive caffeine intake is directly related to:

• The risk of miscarriage.
• preterm birth.
• Low birth weight.

Once a baby is born, there are many myths related to the effects of caffeine on breastfed babies. When a mother enters the breastfeeding period, it is natural to wonder how caffeine can affect her little one.

While consuming caffeine is not prohibited, it is important to know that caffeine can pass into your baby’s breast milk. Many experts therefore recommend replacing caffeine with water or natural fruit juices.

The Effects of Caffeine on Breastfed Babies

Although specialists at the American Pediatric Association consider coffee safe during breastfeeding, excessive consumption can have negative effects.

• Insomnia and other sleep problems.
• Nervousness.
• Irritability.

We should also clarify that some babies are more sensitive to caffeine than others. The above effects may therefore be stronger in some babies than others.

Furthermore, it is important to remember that caffeine stays in their system for much longer. They can’t eliminate it yet.

Studies on coffee and breastfeeding

Ina Santos of the Federal University of Pelotas in Brazil recently conducted a study on the effects of caffeine on 3-month-old babies.

The study was published by the journal Pediatrics and concluded that if mothers consume a moderate amount of caffeine every day, their child’s mood and sleep patterns will not be affected.

To reach this conclusion, approximately 900 breastfeeding mothers were interviewed about their caffeine intake. Their 3-month-old babies’ sleep quality was also looked at.

All but one of the mothers reported consuming caffeine during pregnancy. 14.3% of mothers admitted to consuming too much caffeine while breastfeeding.

The researchers found no direct link between caffeine consumption and sleep problems in the babies in the study. They have also shown that moderate caffeine consumption during pregnancy and breastfeeding is safe for both mother and baby.

How Much Coffee Can You Drink While Breastfeeding?

Consuming about 80 milligrams of caffeine per day (about 1 cup of coffee) is undetectable in breast milk, according to studies. Experts recommend a maximum consumption of about 200 milligrams per day. 

If a mother stays within these limits, her baby will not be taking in an amount of caffeine large enough to alter his mood or ability to sleep.

This is especially true for coffee, but we must remember that other foods and drinks can also contain caffeine. We should therefore always pay attention to the ingredients we eat and drink and pay attention to all other sources of caffeine that we consume.

A baby’s body is very fragile and excessive caffeine can cause a lot of damage. Take care of your own health and that of your baby by moderating your caffeine intake.

While it can be difficult, breastfeeding doesn’t last forever. It may be a sacrifice, but your baby is worth it. He deserves it and much more.