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Hidden Caffeine Concerns for Expectant Moms
It's Not Just in Coffee and Tea Anymore
By Kelly Burgess
In fact, caffeine is present in other drinks besides the obvious coffee, soda and tea. It also can be found in supplements and in some foods you might not think of as being a source of caffeine.
The woman who wants to watch her caffeine levels but still needs her two cups of coffee to keep her going in the morning or her glass of tea at lunch needs to be a little more vigilant about avoiding caffeine from other sources. Cowlan, who specializes in counseling pregnant women, says the best way to do so is to read labels. And don't just look for the word "caffeine" on that label. Some drinks and supplements may be marketed as "all natural" or "caffeine free" but can contain the additive guarana, which has the same stimulating effects as caffeine and should be avoided during pregnancy.
Also, never assume something doesn't have caffeine just because it isn't a known source. Caffeine can be found in some products that are traditionally considered caffeine free. For example, orange soda is generally caffeine free, but one popular brand contains 42 milligrams – more than some dark colas. Have that with your two cups of coffee (approximately 280 milligrams) and 1 ounce of chocolate (approximately 10 milligrams) and you're well over your limit. So be sure to read all labels.
Here are a couple of other surprises:
- Ice Cream: Caffeine is a given in actual coffee, but one serving of many coffee-flavored ice creams and frozen yogurts can contain more caffeine than a soda. Make sure to look for caffeine in the ingredients
list. - Water: Not plain old water, but any water that is flavored or labeled "vitamin" water may contain caffeine. Some brands give you a blast of caffeine equal to or greater than a cup of coffee. In addition, these drinks often contain other additives and supplements that are not known to be safe for consumption during pregnancy.
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