So you're pregnant? Congratulations! Or trying to conceive (TTC)? :)
The journey can be difficult and emotionally draining. There is so much information out there about what you should eat, drink, exercises to do, things you should stop and on and on and on. We're here to help you make an informed decision - in a semi quick way - by providing some information on the safety of coffee and tea when pregnant or looking to get pregnant!
During pregnancy, it's essential to be mindful of your caffeine intake, whether from coffee or tea. Both coffee and tea contain caffeine, which crosses the placenta and can affect the developing fetus. So how does this happen?
- High levels of caffeine consumption have been associated with lower birth weight and increased risk of preterm birth. This is because caffeine can restrict blood flow to the placenta, which may affect the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the developing fetus.
- Some studies suggest that high caffeine intake during pregnancy may increase the risk of miscarriage, especially in the first trimester.
- Excessive caffeine can stimulate the fetal central nervous system, leading to an increase in the baby's heart rate and movement.
- Some research suggests that high caffeine intake may affect ovulation, potentially leading to decreased fertility.
- High caffeine intake has been associated with menstrual cycle irregularities and a longer time to conception in some studies. Disruptions in the menstrual cycle can make it more difficult to accurately track ovulation and optimize timing for conception.
Notice that we mostly talk about HIGH caffeine intake that may make caffeine intake unsafe while TTC and during pregnancy. So these are the people who are having 2 or more cups of coffee a day or excessive amounts of black and green teas (4 cups or more). It is also worth it to note that everyone is different and caffeine affects us all differently. It's important to listen to your body but to also consider health care professional recommendations which is not to exceed 200 mg a day, per the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ACOG). That equals to a little over a 8 oz cup of coffee and up to 2 cups of black or green tea a day!
But you love your coffee and teas! We're with you! But during this sensitive time of TTC and pregnancy, it's important to take care of your health not just for you, but for your growing bub! Or soon to come bub :) So what are your options?
1) Monitor your caffeine consumption and don't exceed 200 mg a day!
2) Switch to decaffeinated options (theres plenty and just as yummy)
3) Drink herbal teas! Safe ones for pregnancy of course! They can be nourishing and supporting.
When in doubt, seek help from your healthcare provider, naturopath or nutritionist to help you make the right decision for your specific case and needs!
We wish you the best on your journey,
Innate Woman Teas Team