Question:
I’m pregnant with my second child and my mother-in-law told me caffeine has been linked to extra weight gain in early childhood. I drank a coffee every morning during my first pregnancy and my son is a normal weight. Should I cut coffee until baby is born, or is there a safe limit? Abby, NSW
Expert Advice:
Australians and New Zealanders love their coffee, with around three quarters of us drinking at least one cup a day. The caffeine delivers a natural pick-me-up, and drinking coffee regularly has been shown to reduce the risk of developing several conditions including Alzheimer’s, diabetes and Parkinson’s disease. But what about drinking coffee when pregnant? During pregnancy, we metabolise caffeine more slowly, meaning it stays in our bodies for longer. Several recent reviews of research have found women who consume more than 300mg of caffeine a day are at greater risk of miscarriage and babies with lower birth weights. Some studies have also found an association between higher caffeine consumption and childhood overweight and obesity. Based on current evidence, you don’t need to cut coffee out completely during pregnancy, but Australian and New Zealand guidelines recommend limiting your caffeine intake to no more than 200mg per day. That’s around two cups of instant coffee or one espresso, but remember, caffeine is also found in things like energy and cola drinks, tea, chocolate and some medications, so keep an eye on your total intake across the day, not just in coffee. We all respond to caffeine differently, so it’s always a good idea to discuss your caffeine intake with your GP or specialist who can provide you with personalised advice.
➜ Send your questions to [email protected] to be answered by our expert. Use the subject line: ‘Ask the expert’
www.healthyfood.com
