Can a mother drink coffee while breastfeeding? Awareness of the diet of breastfeeding mothers. Survey and review of the latest recommendations

Abstract

Introduction: Breastfeeding women often face the dilemma of whether they can drink coffee and, if so,
in what quantity. The European Food Safety Authority recommends a daily intake of 200 mg of caffeine
for lactating women. It is assumed that 1 cup of black coffee provides from 70 to 140 mg of caffeine.

Aim: The article outlines surveyed women’s understanding of coffee consumption safety during breastfeeding
and current recommendations.

Material and methods: The study used an original questionnaire. 630 women aged 18–44 took part in the
survey. The level of knowledge regarding the diet of a breastfeeding mother was examined, with particular
emphasis on the aspect of coffee.

Results: Most of the surveyed women — 408 (64.8%) answered that drinking coffee is allowed while
breastfeeding. However, only over ⅓ of respondents (34.9%) indicate that there is a limit to the amount
of coffee consumed during lactation and it should not be more than 1–2 cups a day. The study showed
no relationship between women’s knowledge and the use of advice from a certified lactation consultant
(p = 0.472).

Conclusions: Most surveyed women correctly indicate coffee as a drink allowed during lactation. However,
they are not aware of the limitations associated with it. The lack of this knowledge may be because mostly
they hear about the diet of breastfeeding mothers from their families rather than from medical professionals.
Using advice from a certified lactation consultant among respondents was not associated with having
more detailed knowledge about drinking coffee during lactation.