Can You Drink Energy Drinks When Breastfeeding?
Written by Jordan Morley · Reviewed against NHS: food and drinks to avoid when breastfeeding · Last updated 28 October 2026
Best kept to a minimum. The NHS says to try not to have more than 300mg of caffeine a day while breastfeeding, and a 250ml can has about 80mg (larger cans up to 160mg), plus other stimulants.
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 250ml can of energy drink has about 80mg, and larger cans up to 160mg.
You can also check the calorie content of energy drinks alongside their safety information.
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Energy Drinks: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| In pregnancy | Best avoided |
Common questions
Is energy drinks safe while breastfeeding?
Best kept to a minimum. The NHS says to try not to have more than 300mg of caffeine a day while breastfeeding, and a 250ml can has about 80mg (larger cans up to 160mg), plus other stimulants.
How much energy drinks are too much?
Try not to go over 300mg of caffeine a day in total (NHS). For reference, a 250ml can of energy drink has about 80mg, and larger cans up to 160mg.
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?
Yes. In pregnancy our verdict was “best avoided”, because of a risk to the unborn baby (see our pregnancy guide). Those reasons ended when your baby was born.
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.