Can Breastfeeding Mothers Drink Coffee? Here’s What Medical Experts Say
Being a mother during the breastfeeding period is a challenging journey, including when it comes to choosing what you can and cannot consume. One question that often comes up is: Can breastfeeding mothers drink coffee?
As a beverage popular around the world, coffee is often a companion in the morning or when you need an energy boost. However, its caffeine content raises concerns for many breastfeeding mothers.
The good news is that the answer to the question of whether breastfeeding mothers can drink coffee is yes! Breastfeeding mothers can still drink coffee, as long as they do so in moderation. Below, we’ll discuss the guidelines and effects of drinking coffee while breastfeeding, so you can continue to enjoy a cup of coffee without worry. Read on for the full explanation!
Can Breastfeeding Mothers Drink Coffee?

Many health experts agree that the answer to the question of whether breastfeeding mothers can drink coffee is yes. Experts say that breastfeeding mothers can drink coffee, but in limited amounts. Caffeine in coffee can pass into breast milk, although only in very small amounts. Newborns, especially those under three months old, have immature metabolic systems, so they process caffeine more slowly than adults.
However, after babies are more than three months old, their bodies begin to process caffeine more effectively. Even so, coffee consumption should still be limited. A caffeine intake of around 300 mg per day is generally considered safe, equivalent to 2–3 medium-sized cups of coffee. [1]
In addition, every baby has a different tolerance for caffeine. If you notice signs such as difficulty sleeping, restlessness, or fussiness in your baby after you drink coffee, it’s best to reduce or temporarily stop drinking it. Always pay attention to your baby’s reactions to determine whether coffee is suitable during breastfeeding.
Guidelines for Drinking Coffee While Breastfeeding

To keep things safe, breastfeeding mothers should follow a few guidelines when they want to enjoy coffee. First, consider when you drink it. It is recommended that you drink coffee right after breastfeeding or a few hours before the next feeding session. This gives your body time to process the caffeine, lowering its level in breast milk by the time your baby feeds. [2]
Second, choose coffee with a lower caffeine content, such as decaf or a more lightly brewed coffee. Using less coffee grounds when brewing can also help reduce the caffeine content. Avoid adding ingredients such as excessive sugar or high-fat creamer, as these can affect the nutritional quality of breast milk.
Third, make sure you continue to drink enough other fluids to prevent dehydration. Caffeine has diuretic properties that can increase how often you urinate. Therefore, balance your coffee consumption by drinking plenty of water to maintain your body’s fluid balance and breast milk quality.
Effects of Excessive Coffee Consumption While Breastfeeding
Although breastfeeding mothers can enjoy coffee in moderation, excessive consumption can have negative effects on the baby. Here are some effects of coffee consumption to watch out for:
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Disrupted Sleep Patterns in Babies

Caffeine is a stimulant that can affect the nervous system of both mothers and babies. If the caffeine level in breast milk is too high, babies may have difficulty falling asleep or may not sleep soundly. This can make them fussier and harder to soothe. [3]
Ongoing sleep disruptions affect not only the baby’s comfort but can also affect the mother’s health. Mothers who lose sleep because their babies are restless may feel tired more quickly, which can ultimately affect breast milk production.
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Digestive Issues

Caffeine can also affect a baby’s developing digestive system. Some babies may experience symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, or colic if exposed to excessive amounts of caffeine through breast milk.
To prevent these issues, breastfeeding mothers should monitor how much coffee they drink and watch for signs of discomfort in their babies after feeding. If the symptoms persist, consult a doctor for further advice.
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Risk of Dehydration in Mothers

Although this effect of coffee consumption is felt more directly by the mother, dehydration can also affect breast milk quality. Caffeine’s diuretic properties can increase fluid loss from the body, which may ultimately reduce the volume of breast milk produced.
Dehydration can also make mothers feel weak and make it difficult to carry out everyday activities, including caring for their babies. Therefore, be sure to balance your coffee consumption with adequate water intake.
It turns out that drinking coffee while breastfeeding is perfectly fine, as long as it is consumed in moderation and the baby does not experience any negative effects. If you’re looking for coffee that is safe for breastfeeding mothers, Tentrem White Coffee could be the solution.
About Tentrem White Coffee

Tentrem White Coffee is the first premium coffee created in collaboration with a five-star hotel in Indonesia. This coffee is made with a smooth flavor and a rich, delicious blend. Tentrem White Coffee is sure to energize your days.
Serving Instructions
- Put 1 sachet of Tentrem White Coffee into a cup.
- Brew with 150 ml of hot water (80℃), stir, and enjoy.
- Store in a dry place, away from direct sunlight.
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