The March of Dimes recommends limiting caffeine to less than 200 mg per day to reduce the amount that crosses the placenta, which can cause health complications for the baby. Caffeine is present in tea, soda, coffee, chocolate and some medications.
Miscarriage
According to The American Pregnancy Association, some studies have shown that consuming more than 300 mg of caffeine per day during a pregnancy can result in miscarriage. On the other hand, moderate intake does not have the same negative impact. The amount of caffeine that is considered moderate is 150 to 300 mg per day. Caffeine may cause miscarriage because when it crosses the placenta, the baby isn't able to metabolize it as quickly as the mother, which can affect developing cells, reports Baby Center. An 8-oz. cup of coffee contains 102 to 200 mg of caffeine. An 8-oz. glass of tea contains 40 to 120 mg. Both of these beverages are available in decaffeinated versions.
Decreased Iron Absorption
Consuming caffeine with a meal makes it more difficult for an expectant mother's body to absorb the iron she and her baby need, reports Baby Center. This is due to phenols present in things like coffee and tea. Pregnancy causes many women to become deficient in iron levels, so it is especially important to watch caffeine intake so that her blood flow remains healthy and her growing fetus receives the nutrients he needs to grow.
Low Birthweight
Caffeine has been shown to cause problems with a gestating baby's growth, reports the March of Dimes. Watching how much caffeine is consumed daily is the best way for a pregnant mother to ensure the good health of her developing baby. Hidden sources of caffeine include chocolate, with 11 to 31 mg of per ounce, Excederin with 65 mg per capsule and 50 to 60 mg in coffee-flavored ice cream.
