Many women question the risks of consuming coffee during pregnancy, especially with the spread of studies claiming that this popular beverage can have severe effects on this group. Contrary to numerous previous studies that warned pregnant women against coffee due to its association with miscarriage and premature birth, new research conducted by scientists at the University of Queensland in Australia suggests that such information may not be entirely accurate.
In the study published in the International Journal of Epidemiology, Dr. Gun Hillen Moin stated, "Current World Health Organization guidelines indicate that pregnant women should not consume more than 300 milligrams of caffeine per day; however, these guidelines were based on studies that did not take into account other factors affecting the health of the mother and fetus, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and poor nutrition. We wanted to understand the effect of coffee alone on pregnant women."
Moin added, "A person's tendency to drink coffee is partially influenced by genetics. Specific genetic variations can affect the amount of coffee we consume, and this applies to pregnant women as well." The study authors employed a technique called "Mendelian randomization," focusing on eight genetic variations that predict coffee drinking behavior in pregnant women and compared these variations with pregnancy outcomes in their group.
Regarding this method, Moin clarified, "Since we cannot ask women to consume prescribed amounts of coffee during pregnancy, we used genetic analyses to mimic a randomized controlled trial." The researchers found that women who consumed coffee during their pregnancy did not experience greater complications compared to those who did not drink coffee.
The researchers pointed out that while pregnant women are often advised to avoid certain things regarding their diet, this study indicates that they can still enjoy coffee without worrying about increased risks associated with pregnancy. Nevertheless, despite the study's findings, the researchers advised pregnant women not to excessively consume coffee and to do so in moderation until childbirth.
