Caffeine intake linked to risk of miscarriage

Reducing caffeine intake during pregnancy can reduce the risk of a miscarriage and low birth-weight, according to research published…

Reducing caffeine intake during pregnancy can reduce the risk of a miscarriage and low birth-weight, according to research published yesterday.

Two studies, published in the journal Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology, examined the effects of drinks such as coffee, tea and cola on unborn children by examining the diets of their mothers.

The researchers suggested that, by reducing caffeine intake during pregnancy, mothers-to-be could reduce the risks to their babies. Previous studies have also suggested a link between caffeine and low birth-weight and miscarriage.

In May, the British Food Standards Agency (FSA) commissioned researchers at the universities of Leicester and Leeds to study the possible links between maternal caffeine consumption and low birth-weight. In 2001, the FSA also issued advice saying that pregnant women should limit their intake of caffeine to less than the equivalent of four average cups of coffee a day.