If you have always relied on a morning coffee or energy drink, you might be wondering if those things are still okay to have while pregnant. One or two cups of coffee will put you at your daily limit.
The average cup of coffee brewed at home has 95 mg of caffeine. But the amount will depend on the brand and size. Always check how much caffeine is in each serving. Not all caffeinated drinks are safe for pregnant people.
Doctors and midwives do not recommend energy drinks to anyone during pregnancy. Energy drinks contain a lot of caffeine and many other ingredients that could be unsafe for pregnant people. Caffeine is a natural stimulant found in plants like tea leaves and coffee beans. It can also be made in a lab. Caffeine comes in common foods and drinks such as:.
Be sure to check food and drink labels for caffeine. During pregnancy, caffeine and other chemicals can cross the placenta and affect the pregnancy. Here is a quick guide to how much caffeine one 8-ounce cup of coffee or tea contains on average:. Many of these drinks contain a lot of extra sugar, too, which is not healthy for you or your pregnancy. During pregnancy, it takes up to three times longer for caffeine to leave your bloodstream.
You could be more sensitive to its effects as a result. For example, your morning coffee could keep you awake at night. The effects of caffeine on pregnancy are not well understood. Some studies say that too much caffeine can put your pregnancy at risk.
