When you’re pregnant, you have to make many changes, including what you eat and drink. It’s important to be aware of what you should (or shouldn’t) be consuming during pregnancy to ensure the safety and health of your baby. Pregnant women must drink more fluids than those who are not expecting, especially during the summer when the weather is hot.
It’s fair to wonder just which drinks are safe to consume during pregnancy. Obviously, you should avoid alcoholic beverages as even drinking them in moderation raises your baby’s risk for fetal alcohol syndrome. However, while some drinks are questionable, they can safely be consumed during pregnancy. You may not have to give up your favorite drinks like you might think.
Water
Water is the single most important drink you should have throughout your pregnancy. You should drink at least six eight-ounce glasses of water per day, in general, but when you are pregnant, you should have at least one extra glass each day. If you were a big water drinker before you became pregnant, it can be very beneficial for both you and your baby as you will regularly be sipping.
Orange Juice
Orange juice is good to drink while you’re pregnant, but you should only have it when it is pasteurized and fortified with calcium. This is especially good to consume if you have high blood pressure or your obstetrician has told you that you are at risk for it—also known as preeclampsia—during your pregnancy. Orange juice contains potassium, which can help lower your blood pressure. However, avoid orange juice or any other type of fruit juice that’s raw or freshly squeezed during pregnancy because these can be unsafe.
Tea
Certain herbal teas can be consumed during pregnancy. However, it’s important to note that not all are safe and that some can actually be toxic. Rooibos tea is caffeine-free and rich in antioxidants while peppermint and ginger tea can help soothe the symptoms of morning sickness. You can also drink green tea but only in moderation while pregnant as it tends to have caffeine. However, there are some decaffeinated green teas you can buy, such as those sold at health food stores.
Coffee
Pregnant women are frequently told they can’t consume coffee due to the caffeine content. However, it’s safe to drink in moderation as long as your caffeine intake is limited to 200 milligrams per day. Instant coffee tends to have less caffeine than ground, so you may want to switch to that during pregnancy if you must have your daily cup of joe.
These drinks are generally safe to have during pregnancy. However, always speak with your doctor to confirm what’s best to consume to ensure the safety of your baby.
Do you have more questions about maternity care in Salem Oregon? Contact our friendly staff at WFMC Health or become a new patient today!
