How Long Does Perimenopause Last?
If you’ve started experiencing the symptoms of perimenopause 一 missed periods, hot flashes, mood swings, or irritability 一 you’re likely wondering how long these symptoms might last. Read on to find out.
Coffee and soda are both popular beverages, and many people rely on their caffeine content to give them a boost of energy each day. Over 62% of Americans drink coffee daily 一 with the average person drinking at least three cups 一 and another 48% drink soda daily.
But if you’re pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant soon, you might wonder if you have to give up your daily cup of coffee. Some women continue drinking sodas throughout the pregnancy, while others avoid it due to fears of miscarriage. So, what is the truth about caffeine?
Below, Dr. Gene Krishingner, Jr. and our team here at OB/GYN Care Orlando in Oviedo, Florida, explore the topic in greater detail.
In short, yes. You can consume caffeine during pregnancy, but how much you consume is what matters. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women consume no more than 200 milligrams each day.
While the ACOG attests that moderate caffeine consumption does not increase the risk of miscarriage, too much caffeine can affect the growth of your baby. According to data published by the researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), mothers who drank more than two cups of coffee 一 200 milligrams of caffeine per day 一 were more likely to give birth to smaller babies. Interestingly, a smaller birth size can increase the risk of obesity, osteoporosis, heart disease, and diabetes later in life.
Interestingly, an NIH study connected high caffeine consumption in the weeks leading up to conception with an increased risk of miscarriage. Taking prenatal vitamins, however, can help ensure your body has the necessary nutrients to support a growing baby.
While too much caffeine isn’t ideal for expectant women, there may be an advantage to moderate 一 100 milligrams of caffeine or less 一 caffeine consumption during pregnancy. According to a 2021 study published in the journal Obstetrics and Gynecology, drinking up to 100 milligrams of caffeine per day during the second trimester reduced the risk of developing gestational diabetes by up to 47%. Researchers noted that caffeine consumption had no significant effect on maternal blood pressure or preeclampsia risk.
What is the truth about drinking caffeine while pregnant? As with most things in life, moderation is the key. Consuming moderate amounts of caffeine during pregnancy is safe. However, be careful to avoid excess consumption.
Following a well-balanced diet, including a daily prenatal vitamin, is one of the most essential things you can do to support a healthy pregnancy.
If you have questions about your diet or nutritional needs during pregnancy, don’t hesitate to ask Dr. K during one of your prenatal appointments. We know there is a lot to manage during pregnancy, and learning what you can (or can’t eat) during pregnancy can be a little overwhelming. We’re more than happy to answer your questions and help identify any lifestyle changes you need to make during pregnancy.
Ready for your next prenatal appointment? Schedule an appointment at our Oviedo, Florida, office by calling 321-304-6249 or using our online form.
