Caffeine; It is a substance that is essentially a medicine and is found in beverages such as coffee, tea, cola and iced tea. When consumed, it easily passes from mother to baby and shows its effects on the fetus. Therefore, caffeine consumption during pregnancy is a frequently discussed issue in terms of its effects on the developing fetus and the progression of the pregnancy. However, the main question to be asked is after what amount the harmful effects begin. In fact, although the habit of drinking tea is more common in our country, thanks to the coffee brands we have seen step by step in recent years, the increase in consumption of coffee in the summer season by preparing it cold in different flavors causes the amount of caffeine taken from coffee to increase. In addition, the ever-increasing variety of energy drinks and their popularity increase the consumption of caffeine, which is much more and unaccounted for than in previous years.
The majority of obstetricians completely ban caffeine-containing drinks for expectant mothers. There is no scientifically proven harm to moderate caffeine consumption. There are studies linking excessive consumption to miscarriage, premature birth, low birth weight and stillbirth. In fact, it is important at this point how much caffeine is consumed!
A recent study states that excessive caffeine consumption during pregnancy is linked to childhood obesity. In the study published in the International Journal of Obesity and covering a 15-year review, obesity was found to be 89% more common in the children of mothers who consumed intense caffeine during their pregnancies than those who did not.
At the same time, too much caffeine can increase the complaints of sleep disorders, headache, frequent urination and dehydration that occur during pregnancy. In this way, it may not only harm the baby but also prevent you from having a quality pregnancy.
According to the American Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics, the mother should consume 200 mg or less of caffeine in order for the baby to be unaffected and to be born healthy. The World Health Organization has determined the limit value as 300 mg per day. The limit here is not to consume more than 2 large cups of caffeine-containing drinks a day.
To better understand these figures, as an example, small-sized coffees sold outside ( 237 ml);
- Americano 75 mg,
- Latte 75 mg,
- Macchiato 150 mg,
- Cappuccino 75 mg,
- Espresso contains 75 mg caffeine.
1 cup of Turkish coffee contains 50 mg caffeine.
However, in addition to coffee, tea It should not be forgotten that cola, cocoa and chocolate also contain caffeine! Instead, decaffeinated drinks or soda can be preferred. However, I think that 1 cup of Turkish coffee a day will not do any harm. If you are a coffee lover, it will be good for you.
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