Does drinking coffee affect breast milk supply?

The Impact of Coffee on Breast Milk Supply
As new mothers navigate the complexities of breastfeeding, one common concern is whether drinking coffee affects breast milk supply. The relationship between caffeine consumption and lactation is nuanced, and understanding it can help mothers make informed choices.
Caffeine and Breast Milk Composition
When a breastfeeding mother consumes coffee, caffeine enters her bloodstream and subsequently passes into her breast milk. Research indicates that caffeine levels in breast milk peak about one to two hours after consumption, with approximately 0.75% to 1.5% of the maternal dose appearing in the milk. This means that while caffeine does transfer to breast milk, the amount is relatively small.
Effects on Milk Supply
Contrary to popular belief, caffeine does not directly decrease breast milk supply. Many women worry that everyday activities, including coffee consumption, might negatively impact their milk production. However, studies suggest that moderate caffeine intake—up to 200-300 mg per day, roughly equivalent to two to three cups of coffee—is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Moreover, a blog from UT Southwestern emphasizes that common concerns, such as drinking coffee, do not significantly affect milk supply. This is reassuring for mothers who wish to enjoy their morning cup without fear of compromising their breastfeeding journey.
Nutritional Considerations
While caffeine may not reduce milk supply, it can affect the nutritional quality of breast milk. For instance, mothers who consume three cups of coffee daily may have about one-third less iron in their breast milk compared to those who abstain from caffeine. This reduction in iron could have implications for the infant’s nutrition, particularly in the early months when iron is crucial for development.
Infant Sensitivity to Caffeine
It’s important to note that some infants may be sensitive to caffeine. Symptoms such as fussiness, restlessness, or disrupted sleep patterns have been reported in babies whose mothers consume high amounts of caffeine. Therefore, while moderate coffee consumption is generally safe, mothers should monitor their babies for any adverse reactions.
Conclusion
In summary, drinking coffee while breastfeeding does not appear to adversely affect milk supply. However, mothers should be mindful of their caffeine intake, considering both the potential nutritional impacts on breast milk and the sensitivity of their infants to caffeine. By balancing their coffee consumption with these factors, breastfeeding mothers can enjoy their favorite beverage without compromising their breastfeeding experience.

What happens if you drink coffee while breastfeeding?

​​​​​​​Caffeine While Breastfeeding
When caffeine enters your bloodstream, a small amount can be passed along to your baby through breast milk. Most babies aren’t affected by this, but some sensitive little ones may be extra fussy or wakeful after drinking milk with trace amounts of caffeine.

What should a breastfeeding mother avoid eating?

Caffeine. It’s not just tea and coffee that contains caffeine – it’s in chocolate, and various energy drinks and soft drinks. It’s sensible to cut caffeine out while breastfeeding because it’s a stimulant so can make your baby restless. If you do drink caffeine, try not to have more than 300mg a day.

What drinks increase milk supply?

Plain water, cow’s milk, herbal tea, smoothies, coconut water, and juice are good drink options during lactation. If you’re worried about your milk supply, speak with your obstetrician. You could also consider working with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant.

How can I dry up my milk supply ASAP?

One of the main things a person can do to dry up breast milk is avoid nursing or pumping. The supply of breast milk increases with demand. Avoiding nursing or pumping, even if a person feels uncomfortable, tells the body to produce less milk.

What shortens your milk supply?

Stress is the No. 1 killer of breastmilk supply, especially in the first few weeks after delivery. Between lack of sleep and adjusting to the baby’s schedule, rising levels of certain hormones such as cortisol can dramatically reduce your milk supply.

What drinks dry up breast milk?

Tips for Drying Up Your Breast Milk

• Drink one mug of sage or peppermint tea 3 or 4 times per day, for 2 to 3 days.
• Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can help dry up your milk, but ask your doctor before using this medicine, and do not take it if you have kidney or thyroid problems, or if you have glaucoma.

Does coffee dry up your milk supply?

One serving of coffee or soda a day does not have enough caffeine or dehydrating factors to reduce your breast milk supply. Another option to increase fluid intake is fenugreek tea, which also can help increase breast milk production.

What can decrease your milk supply?

Other things that can also lead you to have low milk production include:

• Smoking or drinking.
• Some medicines and herbs.
• Hormonal forms of birth control. This is especially true for birth control that has estrogen.
• Nursing or pumping less often.
• Getting sick.
• Feeling stressed.
• Getting pregnant again.

How to increase breast milk flow?

Increasing Your Milk Supply

1. Breastfeed every time your baby is hungry.
2. Make sure your baby is latching well.
3. Offer both breasts at each feeding.
4. Empty your breasts at each feeding.
5. Avoid bottles and pacifiers in the early weeks.
6. Get plenty of sleep, and eat a healthy diet.
7. Pump or express your milk.
8. Relax and massage.

How do I know if caffeine is affecting my baby?

If you have a high caffeine intake it could make your baby irritable, fussy or wakeful. This is because caffeine stimulates the central nervous system and helps us stay awake.