Can you drink energy drinks while pregnant?
Most energy drinks contain caffeine, and ACOG says moderate caffeine intake is generally considered acceptable in pregnancy. Many providers suggest limiting total caffeine and checking labels with your provider.
Key points
- Energy drinks often contain a lot of caffeine, sometimes more than a cup of coffee.
- ACOG describes moderate caffeine intake as generally acceptable during pregnancy.
- Other ingredients in energy drinks are not well studied in pregnancy, so ask your provider before drinking them.
Why it matters
Energy drinks are mostly caffeine, plus sugar and other added ingredients. Caffeine crosses the placenta, so the baby is exposed to it too.
ACOG says moderate caffeine intake is generally considered acceptable during pregnancy. Many providers suggest keeping total daily caffeine from all sources within that moderate range.
What is OK vs. not
- Caffeine from all sources adds up, including coffee, tea, soda, chocolate, and energy drinks.
- Many energy drinks contain a large share of a day’s caffeine in one can, so a single can may use up much of that limit.
- Some energy drinks include herbs or extracts such as ginseng or guarana. Their effects in pregnancy are not well studied, so many providers advise checking with them first.
- Products labeled “energy” vary a lot, so the label is the best place to check caffeine content.
Practical tips
- Many providers suggest adding up caffeine from all sources in a typical day.
- Reading the caffeine amount on the label can help you compare drinks.
- Water, milk, and other non-caffeinated drinks are often suggested as everyday choices.
- Bring a list of what you drink to your next prenatal visit so your provider can give advice for your situation.
If you already had one
A single energy drink during pregnancy is often considered a small exposure, but guidance on this varies. Many providers suggest mentioning it at your next visit so they can help you plan the rest of your day.
It can help to note the brand and caffeine amount if you can find it on the can.
When to contact your provider
Contact your provider if you have a racing or pounding heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting after drinking an energy drink. Call right away if these symptoms are severe.
Questions people ask
Can you have any energy drinks while pregnant?
Some energy drinks have less caffeine than others, so the label matters. Many providers suggest checking the caffeine amount and the other ingredients, then asking your provider whether a specific product fits your plan.
Are energy drinks safe during pregnancy?
Energy drinks are not usually recommended because of their caffeine and added ingredients. ACOG describes moderate caffeine intake as generally acceptable, so limiting total caffeine is often suggested.
Are any energy drinks safe during pregnancy?
No energy drink is clearly proven safe in pregnancy. Ingredients vary, and some are not well studied. Many providers suggest asking your provider before choosing any energy drink.
Can you drink any energy drinks while pregnant?
Some people choose lower-caffeine options within their daily limit, but this varies. Many providers suggest asking your doctor or midwife whether any energy drink fits your health and pregnancy.
More questions people ask
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Sources
- ACOG: Moderate Caffeine Consumption During Pregnancy
- CDC: Pregnancy
- NIH: Nutrition During Pregnancy (MedlinePlus)
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