Can I Drink Coffee While Breastfeeding?
Today, we want to answer the often asked question, “Can I drink coffee whilst breastfeeding?” This question is frequently at the forefront of many parents’ minds. Luckily, there is good news because, yes, it is absolutely possible for you to do this while you are breastfeeding with there being a (usually) minimal impact on your infant.
Is It Ok to Drink Coffee While Breastfeeding?
So, can you drink coffee while breastfeeding? In short, the answer is a resounding yes provided you are willing to consider the short-term impact it might have on you and your infant. We are not talking about a significant impact, but you should be aware that because caffeine is a stimulant and naturally alters the internal state of the body, it is obviously going to alter the condition of your breast milk slightly.
There are not actually any proven reasons as to how or why caffeine working its way into your system could directly cause serious harm to your child under these circumstances. Some people have alluded to the development of potential behaviour disorders and the prevalence of heart issues, but on the whole, there is no concrete evidence to suggest that this is a likely occurrence whatsoever.
Are you still considering, “Is it ok to drink coffee while breastfeeding?” You should instead focus on the effects of drinking coffee or consuming any other caffeinated drink while you are breastfeeding. We will now cover these in greater detail.
What Are the Effects of Coffee on Your Breastfeeding Baby?
In regards to safety, we have already answered the question, “Can I drink coffee while breastfeeding?” Now, we will explore the effects that consuming caffeinated beverages might have on your child.
In infants, breast milk containing caffeine can lead to irritability, anxiousness, mood swings, and sleeplessness among other negative effects. It is never guaranteed that these issues will develop, but it is worth being aware that they possibly could.
As a parent, you also need to be aware of the potentially negative impact coffee can have on several areas including but not limited to blood pressure, energy levels, increased urination, and trouble sleeping.
A baby can be unpredictable, and some of these issues may already be present to a mild degree. Caffeine can, unfortunately, agitate these issues further to a more severe level of intensity.
Always consult with a paediatrician or physician if you are concerned about any noticeable changes in you or your infant as a result of drinking coffee while breastfeeding.
Conclusion
Today, we aimed to answer the question, “Can I drink coffee while breastfeeding?” We have provided you with enough information for you to be able to go forward and continue consuming coffee with total peace of mind.
Being a mom is hard, and sometimes, a quick caffeinated pick me up is what is needed to get you through the day. Luckily, you now know that it will not harm your baby’s health.