Can I drink caffeine during pregnancy?

For pregnant and breastfeeding individuals, the recommended caffeine intake amount is no more than 200 mg per day. This can sometimes be found in one large latte or 2 small cups of coffee. Caffeine is both a stimulant and diuretic (makes you pee). It may also disrupt your sleep. Caffeine can be found in coffee, tea, chocolate, and energy drinks. Caffeine is not a major contributor to miscarriage or preterm birth.

So, enjoy your morning coffee or tea without worry, but keep everything in moderation. There is also no need to suddenly stop all caffeine intake as some people end up with headaches this way.

Some tips to help reduce/monitor caffeine intake include:

• Substituting caffeinated for decaf coffee or tea (you can wean yourself slowly by starting with half decaf/ half caf, and then slowly decreasing the amount of caffeine)

• Drinking safe herbal, fruit, or rooibos (red bush) tea instead of black tea

• Opting for trail mix that contains yogurt covered nuts or dried fruits instead of chocolate

• Compare single and double size coffee drinks; certain brands are way higher in caffeine than others

• Replace caffeinated soft drinks with soda water, smoothies, milk or milk alternatives, flavoured water or drinks without added sugar

Other resources:

https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/pregnancy/caffeine.html