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Can You Drink Coke During Pregnancy? Here’s What You Should Know

Can You Drink Coke During Pregnancy? Here’s What You Should Know

4 minutes

By Niovo • 5/24/2025

Let’s be honest — if you’re pregnant and craving Coke, you’re not alone. Every day, hundreds of women search for answers to the same question: “Can I drink Coke during pregnancy?” The short answer? Yes — but in moderation. Coke contains caffeine and a lot of sugar, two ingredients that can affect you and your baby if consumed too much. But if you’ve already had a few sips (or cans), don’t panic. The key is understanding what’s in Coke, how it affects pregnancy, and how to manage cravings in a safe way. Let’s break it down together.

What’s in Coke, and Why Does It Matter During Pregnancy?

A regular 330ml can of Coca-Cola contains:

  • Caffeine– about 32mg
  • Sugar – around 35g (roughly 7 teaspoons)
  • Phosphoric acid, caramel color, and flavorings These numbers might seem small, but during pregnancy, your body processes things differently — especially caffeine. Caffiene

Caffeine: How Much Is Too Much in Pregnancy?

Experts (like the NHS and WHO) recommend pregnant women stay under 200mg of caffeine per day. That includes:

  • Coffee
  • Tea
  • Chocolate
  • Energy drinks
  • And yes, Coke

So if you’re drinking Coke during pregnancy and also having tea or coffee, the caffeine can add up quickly. To compare:

  • 1 can of Coke = 32mg
  • **1 cup of coffee **= 95mg
  • 1 cup of tea = 47mg
  • Coke Zero = 42mg (yes, more than regular Coke)

Too much caffeine in pregnancy has been linked to:

  • Low birth weight
  • Preterm birth
  • Higher risk of miscarriage (with very high amounts) But again, that’s at high levels — the occasional can won’t harm your baby.

What About the Sugar in Coke?

The sugar in Coke is another concern. During pregnancy, high sugar intake increases your risk of:

  • Gestational diabetes
  • Unhealthy weight gain
  • Fatigue and mood swings If you’re already monitoring your sugar levels or at risk for diabetes, Coke should be a once-in-a-while treat — not something you drink daily.

What If You’ve Already Been Drinking Coke While Pregnant?

If you’re reading this after a Coke run — don’t stress. Many women drink Coke in pregnancy without knowing the risks, especially in the early weeks. What matters is what you do next:

  • Start paying attention to your overall caffeine intake
  • Keep Coke as an occasional drink, not a regular one
  • Choose water, herbal teas, or fruit-infused drinks for hydration

Craving Coke During Pregnancy? Here’s Why

You might be craving Coke during pregnancy for a few reasons:

  • Hormonal shifts affecting your taste buds
  • Low energy or blood sugar dips
  • A need for something cold and fizzy
  • Comfort — especially if Coke was your go-to before pregnancy Cravings are normal, but they don’t have to control your choices.

Healthier Swaps for That Coke Craving

Still want something fizzy or refreshing? Try:

  • Sparkling water with lime or orange slices
  • Chilled zobo (hibiscus tea) without sugar
  • Mint or spearmint tea – calming and hormone-friendly
  • Coconut water – naturally sweet and hydrating

So, Is Coke Safe During Pregnancy?

Yes — but only in small amounts. 1 can of Coke (or less) once in a while is not harmful, as long as your total caffeine and sugar intake is still in a healthy range. If you’re drinking Coke in pregnancy every single day — especially alongside other caffeinated or sugary drinks — it might be time to cut back. Pregnancy is about balance, not perfection. Keep learning, trust your body, and take it one decision at a time. More questions? Signup up to join the Niovo community and get answers to every question — on time, every time.

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