Question: If you're not pregnant anymore, why can't you drink coffee?

Reader bill berditzman writes:

* If you’re not pregnant anymore, why can’t you drink coffee??

Here is the answer from the expert, Brittany Johnson, licensed registered dietitian at Jamestown Hospital:

It is safe to have caffeine while breastfeeding, just don't overdo it. When caffeine enters the bloodstream, a small amount of it ends up in your breast milk. Caffeine isn't easily broken down or excreted by your baby's body, especially during the first few months, so it may accumulate in the baby's system over time.
Drinking a lot of coffee, for example more than two or three cups a day, might cause one or both of you to become irritable, jittery, agitated and it may also contribute to sleeping problems. Many experts state that a moderate intake of caffeine (usually around 300 mg per day) is fine for breastfeeding moms.
Every baby is different.  If your baby seems to be bothered and fussy when you have caffeine, even in small amounts, you may want to cut it out of your diet to see if that makes a difference.