There is a lot of debate in society, about whether or not breastfeeding mothers can drink coffee. The conclusion of several studies states that breastfeeding mothers are still allowedkI drink coffee as long as it's not too much.
Although it is allowed, you need to understand more about the safety of drinking coffee for breastfeeding mothers. Including the impact on babies and the amount of coffee that is safe for consumption.
Effects of Caffeine on Babies and Breastfeeding Mothers
When consuming coffee, the caffeine content in it will enter the bloodstream. In breastfeeding mothers, a small part of the caffeine can pass into breast milk (ASI), so that when the baby suckles, he will also consume the caffeine in breast milk.
Babies' bodies can't break down and get rid of caffeine like adults, because their kidneys and liver are not fully developed. As a result, the caffeine will accumulate in the baby's body.
The younger your baby is, the longer it will take for caffeine to leave his body. In babies under 1 month old, the time it takes is about 4 days. Caffeine has stimulant properties that can stimulate physical activity. This can make your baby restless, fussy and have trouble sleeping after feedings.
Some breastfeeding mothers may want to consume coffee to overcome the fatigue they feel. However, the habit of consuming coffee without clear boundaries, can make babies more nervous because they get excessive stimulation from caffeine. Of course, this condition actually makes breastfeeding mothers more tired.
Drinking too much coffee can also cause side effects on the mother, which may often go unnoticed. Starting from heart palpitations, anxiety, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, heartburn, nausea, to rising blood pressure.
As for breastfeeding mothers with circulatory disorders, such as Raynaud's disease, it is advisable to avoid caffeine altogether. This is because caffeine can exacerbate the constriction of blood vessels experienced, making breastfeeding very painful.
Caffeine Consumption in the amount of safety
The amount of caffeine that is still safe for breastfeeding mothers is no more than 200 milligrams per day. But keep in mind, not only coffee that contains caffeine. Cola drinks, energy drinks, tea, and chocolate also have caffeine in them.
As an illustration, here's an estimate of the amount of caffeine contained in the drink:
- One can of cola drink (350 ml) contains about 40 mg of caffeine.
- 50 grams of chocolate: 50 mg caffeine.
- One can of energy drink: 80 mg caffeine.
- One cup of tea: 75 mg of caffeine.
- One cup of instant coffee: 100 mg of caffeine.
- One cup of filter coffee: 140 mg of caffeine.
By referring to the list above, it is hoped that you can adjust the amount of caffeine intake so that it does not exceed the recommended amount. Also remember to limit foods that are processed using caffeine-containing ingredients, such as chocolate bars, coffee pudding or ice cream.
Although no one forbids breastfeeding mothers to drink coffee, but remember, do not consume it excessively. In addition, remember that it is important for you to adopt a healthy lifestyle and maintain a nutritious diet while breastfeeding, for the health of you and your baby.