What's Brewing with Caffeine

Caffeine is a stimulant that is found in many foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, cocoa, chocolate, and soft drinks. Although caffeine may provide you with your morning boost, it also quickly passes through the placenta to the baby. Animal studies have shown a connection between caffeine intake and birth defects.

However, human studies have been inconclusive. The Food and Drug Administration and most health organizations recommend that pregnant women should discontinue or at least cut down on caffeine. It is okay for pregnant women to wake up and enjoy the coffee. However, a reasonable guideline for daily intake of caffeine is no more that 300 milligrams per day or 2-3 servings. The chart below shows the approximate caffeine content of various foods and beverages.

One study in early 2008, suggests that 200 milligrams of caffeine daily may be too much: Caffeine Linked to Miscarriage. Please discuss your habits with your health care provider.

Food Item	Milligrams of Caffeine
Coffee, Brewed, 8 oz.	65-135
Coffee, Instant, 8 oz.	60-100
Tea, Brewed, 8 oz.	20-110
Tea, Instant, 8 oz.	20-30
Iced Tea, 8 oz.	10-50
Mountain Dew, 1 can	55
Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, 1 can	37
Coke, Diet Coke, 1 can	31
Chocolate Milk, 8 oz.	2-8
Milk Chocolate, 1 oz.	1-15
Chocolate Chips, ¼ cup	26
Chocolate Ice Cream, ½ cup	4-5

About The Author

Becky Hand Becky is a registered and licensed dietitian with almost 20 years of experience. She teaches prenatal classes and counsels individuals, helping women eat right and stay fit before, during and after their pregnancies.