Unexpected caffeine overload: Why pregnant women should rethink cappuccinos

According to findings from a survey by BabyCentre UK, 80% of pregnant women neglect to monitor their daily caffeine consumption. Parenting experts highlight that simultaneously, nearly 90% of women know the safe level of caffeine intake for pregnant women - which is 200 mg.

Many women conscious of caffeine's detrimental effects on fetal development often switch their regular coffee for a cappuccino. There is a common belief that this coffee variant is much healthier for expectant mothers than, for instance, an espresso. However, this is a misconception.

As reported by The Mirror, to stay within the 200 mg limit, one should drink a maximum of two cups of tea or instant coffee. However, beverages served in cafes do not always adhere to this standard - particularly as this information is seldom provided to patrons.

BabyCentre experts have investigated the caffeine content in cappuccinos by popular chain outlets. They found that the caffeine level in coffees from Costa Coffee amounts to as much as 325 mg, which is 1.25 times more than the prescribed "safe" daily amount for pregnant women and those breastfeeding. In stark contrast, Starbucks' cappuccinos contain only 66 mg of caffeine.

The caffeine content in each coffee varies depending on both the type and size of the beverage. All Costa coffees have decaffeinated alternatives. We also offer an extensive selection of other such options - assures a spokesperson for the British branch of the Costa coffee franchise (The Mirror).