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Is it safe to drink my fave cup of coffee if I'm pregnant?

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Cups of coffee

In this article, you’ll find answers to these questions:  

  1. Can caffeine harm your unborn baby?

  2. Should you have energy drinks?

  3. How much caffeine is in certain products? 

Caffeine is a stimulant found in such things as coffee, tea, soda, chocolate and some energy drinks. It gives you a jolt that helps keep you awake.

1. CAN CAFFEINE HARM YOUR UNBORN BABY? 

Studies have not provided a clear answer. Experts recommended pregnant women limit their caffeine intake to 200 milligrams per day. That’s the equivalent of a 12-ounce cup of coffee. 

2. SHOULD YOU HAVE ENERGY DRINKS? 

Some 24-ounce energy drinks may have up to 500 milligrams of caffeine in them. Energy drinks also can be loaded with sugar. In general, it is best to avoid energy drinks while you are pregnant.

3. HOW MUCH CAFFEINE IS IN CERTAIN PRODUCTS? 

Here are some examples: 

Food and Beverages                      Milligrams of Caffeine 

Brewed Coffee (8 ounces)                             137 

Brewed Tea (8 ounces)                                   48 

Caffeinated Soft Drink                                     36 

Hot Cocoa (12 ounces)                                  8-12 

Dark Chocolate (1.45 ounces)                        30 

Milk Chocolate (1.55 ounces)                         11   

SOURCE: 

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