Can I drink decaffeinated coffee when pregnant?
Quick Answer
Yes
Decaffeinated coffee is generally considered safe to drink during pregnancy. However, it’s important to remember that decaf coffee still contains small amounts of caffeine. Therefore, moderation is key.
What Is It?
Decaffeinated coffee, or ‘decaf,’ is coffee that has had almost all of its caffeine removed. It is often consumed by those who are sensitive to caffeine or trying to reduce their caffeine intake.
Why It Can Be Risky
While decaffeinated coffee is generally safe for pregnant women, there are a few potential risks to consider.
- Decaf coffee still contains small amounts of caffeine, which can accumulate throughout the day.
- Excessive caffeine intake during pregnancy can lead to complications such as preterm birth and low birth weight.
Safe Method?
To safely consume decaffeinated coffee during pregnancy, limit your intake to no more than 200 mg of caffeine per day. This is roughly equivalent to 12 ounces of decaf coffee.
Safe Alternatives
- Herbal tea: Many herbal teas are caffeine-free and safe to drink during pregnancy.
- Chicory coffee: This is a caffeine-free coffee substitute that tastes very similar to coffee.