Caffeine and Pregnancy

A new study shows that one dose of caffeine -- just two cups of coffee -- ingested during pregnancy may be enough to affect fetal heart development and reduce heart function over the entire lifespan of the child.    

In addition, the researchers also found that this minimal amount of exposure can lead to higher body fat among males. Although the study was in mice, the biological cause and effect described in the research paper likely apply to humans as well.   

Researchers studied pregnant mice for 48 hours. Mice were given caffeine-produced embryos with a thinner layer of tissue separating some of the heart's chambers.      

The researchers then examined the mice born from these groups to determine the long-term effects on the offspring. All of the adult males exposed to caffeine as fetuses had an increase in body fat of about 20 percent and a decrease in cardiac function of 35 percent.

See full article at:  http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2008-12/foas-ald121608.php

Doctors Notes:

There are many things that should be avoided or eliminated during pregnancy including smoking, drinking alcohol, using drugs (including prescription and over-the-counter) raw eggs, and heavy lifting.     

Caffeine, in general, can cause a number of things to happen to the fetus. It can lead to low birth weight, cleft palate, increased chance of SIDS, and miscarriages. 

Just two cups of coffee during your entire pregnancy can increase the chances of your fetus being born with a heart malfunction.   

Remember, soda, tea, chocolate, and energy drinks have a lot of caffeine in them too!    

There are many things you can do to keep your baby healthy. Exercise and regular movement are among the best things you can do. Taking a good prenatal vitamin daily, one that contains folic acid and omega 3’s, is essential as is eating a healthy diet (no junk food and processed foods).  Get a healthy amount of sun exposure and drink plenty of water.