Can You Have Caffeine When Breastfeeding?
Written by Jordan Morley · Reviewed against NHS: food and drinks to avoid when breastfeeding · Last updated 28 October 2026
Keep it low. The NHS says try not to have more than 300mg of caffeine a day while breastfeeding: a mug of filter coffee has about 140mg, instant 100mg, tea 75mg, a 250ml energy drink 80mg, a 354ml cola 40mg and a plain chocolate bar up to 50mg.
What the guidance says
Caffeine passes into breast milk and is a stimulant, so it can make some babies restless. The NHS says cutting it out is sensible, but if you do have caffeine, try not to have more than 300mg a day. That is a higher limit than in pregnancy (200mg). The totals include all sources: coffee, tea, cola, energy drinks and chocolate. Examples from the NHS: a mug of filter coffee has about 140mg, instant 100mg, tea 75mg, a 250ml energy drink 80mg, a 354ml cola 40mg and a plain chocolate bar up to 50mg.
You can also check the calorie content of caffeine alongside its safety information.
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Caffeine: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| In pregnancy | Limit — 200mg caffeine a day |
Common questions
Is caffeine safe while breastfeeding?
Keep it low. The NHS says try not to have more than 300mg of caffeine a day while breastfeeding: a mug of filter coffee has about 140mg, instant 100mg, tea 75mg, a 250ml energy drink 80mg, a 354ml cola 40mg and a plain chocolate bar up to 50mg.
How much caffeine is too much?
Try not to go over 300mg of caffeine a day in total (NHS). For reference, a mug of filter coffee has about 140mg, instant 100mg, tea 75mg, a 250ml energy drink 80mg, a 354ml cola 40mg and a plain chocolate bar up to 50mg.
Is the caffeine limit different from pregnancy?
Yes. In pregnancy the limit is 200mg a day. While breastfeeding the NHS advice is no more than 300mg a day.
Was this different during pregnancy?
In pregnancy our verdict was “limit — 200mg caffeine a day” (see our pregnancy guide for the reasons).
What should I avoid while breastfeeding?
The NHS list is short. Caffeine: try not to have more than 300mg a day (a mug of filter coffee is about 140mg, instant 100mg, tea 75mg). Alcohol: it is safer not to drink, but 1 or 2 units once or twice a week should be fine. Oily fish: no more than 2 portions a week. Shark, swordfish and marlin: no more than 1 portion a week. Peanuts are fine unless you're allergic. Most other foods that were off the menu in pregnancy, such as soft cheese, pâté, cured meat and runny eggs, are not restricted.
Related answers
Primary source: NHS: food and drinks to avoid when breastfeeding.
General information only, not medical advice: see the medical disclaimer. Feeling unwell after eating something? Contact NHS 111 or your GP.