Although in pregnancy we can continue to eat and drink what we usually enjoy, there are things that we all know we should not consume, such as alcohol. However, according to multiple studies, we should also pay special attention to caffeine.
New research has found that consuming even just half a cup of coffee a day in pregnancy could negatively affect the size and weight of the baby , resulting in smaller babies.
This study, which was published in the JAMA Network Open journal, would support what other research concluded a few months ago: There is really no safe amount of coffee consumption in pregnancy.
Previously, according to previous research, a maximum caffeine intake that was considered safe during pregnancy had been considered: 200 milligrams a day , the equivalent of almost two cups of coffee.
However, more recent studies, including the one we’ll share below, have found that even smaller amounts of that recommendation are not safe .
In this new research, it was found that even 50 milligrams of caffeine a day – the equivalent of half a cup of coffee – can have a negative effect on the baby’s anthropometry , that is, on its size.
According to the results of the study, compared to women who did not consume caffeinated beverages, women who reported drinking at least 50 milligrams per day had babies with smaller subscapular skin folds, while women who drank more than 50 milligrams per day had babies with lower birth weights, as well as a smaller measurement in their arms and legs .
As we’ve discussed in sharing other studies on caffeine use in pregnancy, this doesn’t mean that you should stop drinking coffee altogether (although it’s better to do so) or that it should be viewed as completely negative.
Remember that these studies are based on an average consumption during pregnancy, so drinking an occasional cup of coffee will not necessarily hurt, but we must bear in mind the possible effects to be more aware about its consumption at this stage.
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In Babies and more | Not a drop of coffee in pregnancy: study shows no safe minimum amount
