Discover your perfect “comfort drink” alternative during your breastfeeding journey — without the caffeine.
The journey of motherhood can have many changes. For breastfeeding mothers, finding the perfect drink to enjoy without the jolt of caffeine can be a daunting challenge.
In this article, I share some decaffeinated drinks that will help feed you during this time and offer the comforting ritual that coffee provides. As a mother, I just know how important caffeine isso if you’re confused now — I understand!
Are you wondering how to make it through motherhood without relying on caffeine? If you are looking for a delicious alternative to your trusty coffee, stick to it. I’ve been in your shoes and have some great suggestions to share!
Why did I give up coffee while breastfeeding?
I had to give up coffee while breastfeeding my son. Even coffee (up to 300 mg/day) is considered safe while breastfeedingthere’s another reason why I have to give up my beloved cuppa.
When my son was about a month old, he was clear suffering from reflux. The symptoms are easy to spot:
- Continued spitting up, even long after nursing
- Crying after spit-up moments
- Discomfort when breastfeeding
- Sleep was interrupted
My son came a few weeks early, and I was nervous about his weight gain and keep our breastfeeding journey on track. Throw in a lip and tongue tie and some nasty reflux problems, and I was really determined to find any solution that would work he felt better and we both smiled.
Early on, one of my medical providers advised me check my diet for any triggers cause of my little one spitting up. coffee was on the “suspect” list, which hit me hard.
I love my coffee rituals — a cozy mug in the morning and a refreshing iced one in the afternoon. This was my grounding moment and my pick up.
I knew I needed to cut back on caffeine to see if my son would benefit.
In the early days of being a new mom, it hurt a little to see something that was once a big part of my routine disappear. But I was determined finding some convenient alternative.
Eight alternatives to coffee (caffeine-free!)
Here are 8 different drinks that I tried (and really enjoyed!) as I tried my way through caffeine-free drinks.
- decaffeinated coffee
- chicory-based “coffee”.
- Decaf chai tea
- Herbal teas
- Hot water with lemon
- Golden milk
- Hot cocoa
- Bone broth
Staying hydrated is super important for new moms, especially if you’re breastfeeding. So, apart from sipping water, include these drinks for a little mood lift in your day.
For some, switch to caffeine-free drinks as a new mom brings comfort and the encouraging idea that you do gentle and nurturing options for yourself and your baby.
1. decaffeinated coffee
A cup of decaf coffee is likely the most familiar option to fill your cup and perhaps the easiest transition.
I remember cooler mornings when I was staying away from fully caffeinated coffee. Turn to a good ol’ decaf feels comforting, gives me a warm, familiar feeling and taste.
It’s also a great option to go to if you’re meeting a friend for a coffee date (which is so important for moms!) since most coffee places have decaf on the menu.
2. Chicory based coffee
This is a really good choice for those who enjoy the taste of coffee but want to get away from it completely. I enjoyed it differently chicory-based coffees because of slightly nutty taste similar to coffee.
At the beginning of my caffeine-free journey, I went on a chicory coffee-tasting spree. I was pleased to find options that tasted like raspberry mochahazelnuts, and toasted almonds.
Every few days, I brew a large pot of chicory coffee in my coffee maker and keep it in the fridge. Voila! An ice cold, caffeine free food waiting for me in the afternoons.
3. Decaf chai tea
Chai tea is often associated with warmth and comfort. For moms adjusting to new tasks or caring for a newborn, a cup of decaf chai can be provided. a moment of relaxation and self-care.
Decaf chai comes in a variety of forms — tea bags, loose leaf, and pre-made bottled. I liked this option because it was easy to do keep some tea bags in my diaper bag for those on-the-go moments. It’s also a great choice to make quickly.
4. Herbal teas
Sticking with the whole tea vibe, herbal teas are a fantastic caffeine-free option. There are a bunch of flavors to choose from, like cchamomile, peppermint, and ginger. They are perfect for winding down at night.
It’s always the best talk to your doctor or a lactation consultant before trying new herbal teas, especially if you have any doubts while breastfeeding.
Related: The Best Postpartum Teas for Healing and Recovery
5. Hot water with lemon
I was surprised how thirsty I was always in the early days of breastfeeding. A cup of warm water with lemon and a little honey is a good option to visit in the morning.
This drink always makes me feel like I’ve started the day off healthy. I liked knowing I was getting it a boost in vitamin Cand the smell and taste of lemon is like a burst of freshness after those long, sleepless nights.
6. Golden milk
Golden milk, or a turmeric latte, is a great choice with some added health benefits. Sipping on a cup of it can help with things like inflammation, immune support, and digestive health and can benefit from sleep! It is a cup of liquid gold for mothers.
I really enjoyed this drink when I had a little time to treat myself. I like steam some oat milk and whisk it all together for a while. It’s like my little indulgence. The warm, creamy, slightly spicy flavor felt so elevated. And I love knowing it’s a healthy choice.
7. Hot cocoa
A cup of hot cocoa with unsweetened cocoa powder can be a nice treat. You can also top it with a little whipped cream.
This option is a great option to open in the colder months. There’s something so comforting about wrapping your arms around it a steaming mug of hot cocoa — it’s pure convenience.
This option is also great for on-the-go, as most coffee shops have it available.
8. Bone broth
Rich in nutrients bone broth is a warm, comforting hug in a mug. I was all about this drink in my early postpartum days (it’s so good for recovery and healing!) And continue to enjoy it when caffeine is off the table.
Related: Best Postpartum Collagens (and What to Avoid!)
The bone broth was the farthest thing from my regular cup of coffee, so I had a hard time turning to it in the early morning.
This option is more of a late morning or early afternoon for me. I liked that it was a sneaky way to get in some added nutrients and minerals and it is gentle on the stomach.
Enjoying your new mom days — caffeine free
Motherhood is a rollercoaster of emotions. Adjusting to your little one and all the changes can be difficult.
At first, giving up caffeine forced me to lose a piece of my daily routine. but you know what? These eight tasty, caffeine-free options kept me entertained and underlying.
Remember, these caffeine-free options are great, but it is it’s always best to talk to your health care provider. They are there to help you make the best choices for you and your child!
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Bibliography
“Is Caffeine Safe While Breastfeeding?” WebMDWebMD, www.webmd.com/baby/is-caffeine-safe-while-breastfeeding.
West, Helen. “6 Evidence-Based Health Benefits of Lemons.” HealthlineHealthline Media, 11 Apr. 2023, www.healthline.com/nutrition/6-lemon-health-benefits
