If you are pregnant and looking for a New Year’s resolution, some doctors suggest taking a look at the amount of caffeine you’re consuming.  Children who were exposed to small amounts of caffeine before birth were shorter on average than those who were not, according to a recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. 

Gaps in height weren’t significant, but were detected at age 4-8 according to researchers.  The findings were reported even in children of pregnant women who consumed less than 50 mg of caffeine per day on average, which is well below the current guidelines. Pregnant women should consume less than 200 mg of caffeine a day according to the American Academy of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. 

Dr. Jamie Plett, an OB/GYN with OSF Healthcare says that a mug of filtered coffee has about 140 mg.  

When it comes to growth in children there are other factors at play including gender, health conditions, nutrition, and environmental conditions. 

According to researchers, there is no way to know fi the difference in height would continue into adulthood.  If it did, there would be concerns of heart disease, obesity, and diabetes, which is often associated with smaller stature.  Dr. Plett says she talks to her peatients about caffeine intake and staying around that 200 mg mark. 

Dr. Plett encourages parents to not overthink any study and to talk with their doctor if they have any questions or concerns. 

As with any major lifestyle or dietary change, remember to talk with your healthcare provider first, as changes can affect your mood or medical conditions.