Can Breastfeeding Moms Drink Coffee?

BY KATIE CLARK, IBCLC

If you are a coffee drinker you may wonder how safe it is to drink coffee while breastfeeding. That is a good question to ask as you defintiely want to make sure you are consuming things that aren’t going to be harmful to yourself or your baby while breastfeeding. But there’s good news- yes! You can drink coffee while breastfeeding.

Can breastfeeding moms drink coffee?

So phew, yes- coffee is definitely okay while you are breastfeeding- however there are a few things to take into consideration.

Anything you consume does end up in your breastmilk and that includes the caffeine from coffee. However, research does suggest that the amount is less than one percent of what you ingest. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests you drink no more than three cups of coffee a day- or no more than 300 milligrams daily.

Most likely your baby will not feel the effects of your coffee habit. However, if you do feel like they are more cranky, or irritable after drinking coffee and then nursing you can try to cut it out of your diet for a week or so to see if there is any correlation. Then put coffee back into your diet and then take note of your baby to notice if those tendencies come back. But overall- coffee is considered okay to drink while breastfeeding. If you do have any concerns always reach out to your care provider.

New to breastfeeding? Need a refresher for a second baby? Make sure you signup for “The Complete Online Breastfeeding Class“. This on demand class is designed to help you meet your breastfeeding goals.

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Welcome ToThe Breastfeeding Mama

Hi! I’m Katie Clark – mom of three and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Over the past eight years, I’ve dedicated my life to helping thousands of breastfeeding moms around the world overcome their breastfeeding problems and find peace in their journey. I can’t wait to help you!