Duchesnay
Caring for mother and child during pregnancy
Nutrition in pregnancy
Practical advice on nutrition and pregnancy
The health information contained herein is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to replace discussions with a healthcare provider. All decisions regarding patient care must be made with a healthcare provider, considering the unique characteristics of each patient.

Nutrition before and during pregnancy: Caffeine

A moderate amount of caffeine in pregnancy has not been shown to pose any risk for the baby. According to Motherisk, an amount greater than 300 mg/day (3 cups of coffee) may be associated with an increased risk for miscarriages and low birth weight babies. If you have questions about the use of caffeine in pregnancy, you should consult your healthcare professional.

Caffeine Equivalents
Coffee100 mg per 250 ml (1 cup)
Chocolate6 mg per 30 g bar
Cola (soda)31 mg per 250 ml (1 cup)
Tea27 mg per 250 ml (1 cup)

Please remember that caffeine is found in many products and their effects are additive.

 
 

For your reading:

Pregnant or Trying? Make sure to take your supplements!

Prenatal Multivitamin-Mineral Supplementation: Minimizing Adverse Events

Health Canada: Folic Acid and Birth Defect

Women of childbearing age:

"All women who could become pregnant and those who are pregnant or breastfeeding need a multivitamin containing folic acid every day. Pregnant women need to ensure that their multivitamin also contains iron. A healthcare professional can help you find the multivitamin that's right for you."
Ref.: Eating Well with Canada's Food Guide - PDF (1.755 Mb) See page 5
Copyright 2000-2008, Duchesnay Inc., Canada, Disclaimer and Terms of use