Studies have shown that too much caffeine is unsafe during pregnancy. What may be less well known are the effects of caffeine on fertility. Research suggests that there may be a correlation between high caffeine intake and infertility.
To be on the safe side, it is probably a good idea for those who are trying to get pregnant to cut back on caffeine consumption. Many doctors and health care practitioners agree that a moderate amount of caffeine does not appear to affect a woman’s fertility. Approximately 300 mg or less of caffeine per day seems to be a safe amount. This translates into no more than two cups of coffee or tea per day. Any more than this may have adverse effects on a woman’s fertility.
Caffeine Can Affect Both Female and Male Fertility
High caffeine consumption doesn’t just affect a woman’s fertility. Experts suggest that too much caffeine can also have adverse effects on a man’s fertility. If a man has normal sperm count, caffeine might decrease his chances of impregnating his partner.
How Much Caffeine is Too Much?
Although further research needs to be done to draw more in-depth conclusions into the effects of caffeine on fertility, many studies suggest that low to moderate amounts of caffeine consumption do not seem to have any adverse effects on fertility. It is important to be aware that caffeine comes in many forms besides tea and coffee. In addition, the term “decaffeinated” does not imply that a substance is “caffeine-free.” For example, a cup of decaffeinated coffee contains about five milligrams of caffeine.
Common Foods and Beverages With High Caffeine Content
Coffee is probably the first beverage that people associate with caffeine. It is important to know that there is a variety of other sources of caffeine. Beverages like tea, soft drinks, and energy drinks can also contain high amounts of caffeine. In addition, caffeine is also in various over-the-counter medications, such as drugs for colds, headaches and allergies.
The following is a list of items and their associated caffeine content:
- Coffee, one 8-ounce cup: 100-300 mg
- Instant coffee, one 8-ounce cup: 50-200 mg
- Espresso, one 2-ounce shot: 50-70 mg
- Brewed tea, one 8-ounce cup: 50-175 mg
- Decaffeinated coffee, one 8-ounce cup: 5 mg
- Coke/Diet Coke, 12 ounces: 45 mg
- Hot chocolate, one 8-ounce cup: 5-30 mg
- Energy drink, 8-16 ounces: 80-160 mg
- Milk chocolate, 1 ounce: 5-15 mg
- Dark chocolate, 1 ounce: 10-35 mg
As illustrated, many items contain caffeine. Many products also have their caffeine content listed on the labels. To be on the safe side, it would be wise to cut back on caffeine consumption while trying to get pregnant.
For more pregnancy-related information, please visit: www.complete-pregnancy-guide.com.
References:
1. fertility.com
2. kidshealth.org
3. American Pregnancy Association
 |
