No one could ever doubt that having a few cups of coffee a day keeps us energized and moving forward. However, while your morning cup of joe can have a ton of positive effects on your health, certain problems do present themself when we overindulge at the wrong time, particularly this one danger of drinking coffee.
While many have heard that one too many espresso shots or lattes can cause anxiety, raise heart rates, and cause high blood pressure, few know about the danger that they place themself in when they indulge in coffee while pregnant. According to the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, a serving of coffee a day wouldn’t cause any serious damage to a fetus or pregnant person, but everything appears much dicier if you like to consume more than two cups of coffee a day.
Here’s why, and for even more helpful drinking tips, be sure to check out our list of 108 Most Popular Sodas Ranked By How Toxic They Are.
Another key study found in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that consuming over 200 milligrams of caffeine a day increased the risk of miscarriages while a study found in Plos One documented how even a small amount of coffee consumed each day has the potential to lower a fetus’ birth weight and should be approached with caution.
While scientists agree that they need to keep studying the fetus’ response to caffeine, you should rank coffee with other foods and beverages you want to avoid while pregnant, like soft cheese, fish, and alcohol.
As multiple studies continue to outline the dangers of drinking too much coffee while pregnant, dietitians like Alexandra Soare, RD have also followed the research and begun advocating against drinking the beverage if you are pregnant.
“As a dietitian, the only time when I won’t recommend it is during pregnancy,” Soare said. “Several studies found a correlation between coffee consumption and low birth weight, preterm birth, and pregnancy loss.”
“Caffeine can cross the placenta,” Soare continued. “The fetus has too little CYP1A2 levels, the enzyme that can metabolize caffeine. Therefore it will be exposed to this agent for longer.”
While you might never think about coffee as a dangerous drink, get ready to reevaluate this beverage next time you start thinking about planning a family. And always consult your doctor when it comes to your specific body and pregnancy.
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