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Health Watch: Caffeine & Pregnancy

Nov 12, 2008 · health · Legacy · news
Health Watch: Caffeine & Pregnancy

Two universities in the UK have determined that excessive amounts of caffeine during pregnancy can impact the weight of the child as it's developing, putting some babies at risk of a low birth weight. What do we mean by excessive? Well, the study found that the babies of mothers who drank the equivalent of 3 or more cups of coffee each day tracked to a lower weight during each trimester of development. A low birth rate has been linked to health issues such as diabetes or heart disease later in life, so it's important that a baby is born within the healthy range. While the study has confirmed a link between caffeine and fetal development issues, scientists don't think this should inspire pregnant mothers to abstain from all caffeine intake. Other health benefits still exist and a mother limiting her coffee to 1 cup per day should have no concern.

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