How Much Is 200mg Of Caffeine? A Guide For Pregnant Women | HuffPost Life

Do you know how much caffeine is in one cup of coffee? ☕️

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Life editor at HuffPost UK

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Pregnant women are advised to limit their daily caffeine intake to 200mg - but not many actually know what that looks like in practice. This is leading to expectant mums to over-consume caffeine, which is linked to miscarriage, low birth-weight and foetal growth restriction, according to Tommy’s pregnancy charity.

In a poll of 4,100 pregnant women conducted by the charity, 61% said they would reduce their caffeine consumption habits after being made aware of how much caffeine there is in daily items.

“There is evidence that excessive caffeine intake is associated with an increased risk of miscarriage,” said Professor Arri Coomarasamy, clinical director of Tommy’s National Miscarriage Research Centre. “Interestingly, this evidence seems to apply to not just women during pregnancy, but also to men, pre-conception. Although more research is required, most clinicians would recommend couples to restrict their caffeine intake.”

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Since 2008 the Food Safety Authority (FSA) has recommended that pregnant women keep their caffeine intake to under 200mg a day. Caffeine is found in tea and coffee, cola, other soft beverages such as energy drinks and chocolate.

That’s not to say chocolate, coffee and tea is out the window when pregnant, it’s more about being aware of how much caffeine you’re consuming. Sophie King, a Tommy’s midwife, said: “Caffeine consumption can add up so quickly. Two cups of coffee and a bar of chocolate would have enough caffeine to be over the recommended limit while pregnant.

“We recommend pregnant women to try switching to decaffeinated coffee, herbal teas, fruit juice and water. Don’t worry if you have in the past gone over the 200mg limit but using a caffeine calculator now can help you be more aware of your consumption and to cut down if you need to.”

Tommy’s has an online caffeine calculator for pregnant women to check their consumption.

200mg is equal to...

:: Two mugs of tea (350ml) a day - 75mg each

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:: One mug of filter coffee - 140mg

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:: Two mugs of instant coffee - 100mg each

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:: Five cans of cola - 40mg each

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:: Eight plain chocolate bars (50g) - 25mg each (FYI milk chocolate has less caffeine than dark chocolate)

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:: Two energy drinks (250ml) - 80mg each

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So, in one day, you will almost reach your 200mg limit of caffeine if you have two mugs of tea and a can of coke; or a mug of instant coffee and a 250ml energy drink.

It’s worth noting that the amount of caffeine in coffees bought in high-street chains can be a lot higher. For example, a latte from Starbucks (size venti) with semi-skimmed milk contains 225mg of caffeine. If you’re unsure, ask before you order.

If you’re worried about your caffeine consumption, speak to your midwife.

Before You Go

Pregnancy worries and words of comfort

I have no morning sickness! Is that bad news?(01 of10)

You might have read things about how morning sickness signifies a healthy level of pregnancy hormones – but not having morning sickness does not mean you're lacking! Although many women suffer with it (and 'suffer' really is the word), many other women do not. Some women have it one pregnancy, but not in another. Attend all your usual checks and count yourself as one of the lucky ones! (credit:Alamy )

I drank before I knew I was pregnant, I might have harmed the baby(02 of10)

This happens to many, many expectant mums, and it's unlikely to be a cause for concern at all. Mention it to your GP/midwife, and just keep off the booze now, until you can enjoy a celebratory glass of fizz when your bundle arrives. (credit:Alamy )

I'll lose the baby(03 of10)

It's estimated about one in five pregnancies ends in early miscarriage, and it's thought most of those occur simply because the foetus wasn't developing properly. It does happen, but don't let it rule your thoughts because the vast majority of pregnancies do succeed. Try not to worry and remember that once you're into the second trimester, the chances of miscarriage is dramatically reduced. (credit:Alamy )

My baby might not be 'perfect'(04 of10)

It's estimated that one in 16 babies in the UK is born with a birth defect – but this figure refers to all birth defects, and many are mild and can be treated. So it's likely your baby won't have a birth defect, and even if they do, they will be perfect in their own way – remember support is available for every eventuality. Take your folic acid and attend your antenatal screening appointments. (credit:Alamy )

I won't make it to the hospital on time(05 of10)

You might have read terrifying stories about pregnant women giving birth in car parks and taxis – but these stories make it to the news because they are extraordinary, in the literal sense of the word! It very rarely happens, and most women get plenty of warning that labour is beginning. So plan well, and all is very likely to be fine. (credit:Alamy )

I might have to have a c-section(06 of10)

If you do end up needing a c-section, you might feel disappointed – but believe us, in the moment the only thing you'll really care about is the safe delivery of your baby. It won't be the end of the world and you won't care a jot when your baby is in your arms. (credit:Alamy )

I won't be able to cope during labour(07 of10)

There is just no telling how labour will be for you, so don't worry about it now. Make your birth plan, discuss it with your partner and midwife, and go with the flow on the day (it's okay to change your mind!). There will be lots and lots of help and support at your disposal. Not to mention drugs, should you need them. (credit:Alamy )

Labour will humiliating (will I poo on the bed?!)(08 of10)

You've heard about that then? It can happen, but the doctors and midwives have seen it all – they have experienced every possible scenario. They won't be worrying about things like that, so neither should you. (credit:Alamy )

I don't know how to be a mum(09 of10)

No-one does until they become one! Every new mum feels like they're winging it in the early days. As your baby grows and you get to know them, you'll learn. Trust in the fact that just about every mother has gone through it… and survived. (credit:Alamy )

I'm worried about gaining all that weight(10 of10)

You will put on weight, yes – but it's normal and nothing to be afraid of! Much weight gain is actually down to the baby, the placenta, extra blood in your system and the retention of water. Pregnancy changes your body in myriad ways – just enjoy it, and let your body just do its thing at this special time. Remember, there's no need to 'eat for two'… but eat what you need and don't count calories. (credit:Alamy )

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