Cocoa during Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

For me, Melmo, as a mom, the topic of cocoa during pregnancy and breastfeeding is especially important. Today, I wish I had known about the wonderful supportive effects of cocoa back then, when I had the privilege of bringing the miracle of my daughter into the world. Therefore, I want to take you along and show you how cocoa can support you especially during this wonderful, yet challenging, time.

In our Kakao Mischa Community, there's also a recurring lively discussion, with questions and talks about: Is cocoa recommended during pregnancy? What about breastfeeding mothers?

Because these topics are close to our hearts and we're deeply engaged with them, we're sharing our insights and experiences with you.

Important: For all mothers, it is crucial to remain self-responsible and observe how both mother and child feel after consuming cocoa. Does the ritual help to relax? To promote mindfulness and contentment? Then there is nothing to prevent its enjoyment.

Nutrient Intake during Pregnancy

It's clear to all of us: the well-being of mother and child is paramount during pregnancy. It's a challenging time for the expectant mother's body, as it is in the process of creating a new human being and requires more energy to do so.

Healthy foods and nutrients support mother and child in growing (together). In reality, this is often not so easy to implement. What's practical about cocoa is that it contains a lot of over 300 ingredients! Cocoa is considered one of the most complex foods worldwide, partly due to this high amount of various nutrients.

Special advantage of ceremonial cocoa: Thanks to the natural processing without high heating or adding ingredients, ceremonial cocoa contains all the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants of the whole cocoa bean.

Theobromine in cocoa as a caffeine alternative during and after pregnancy 

In contrast to coffee, cocoa contains a significantly lower amount of caffeine – approximately one-tenth of the caffeine found in coffee. Instead of caffeine, cocoa contains theobromine, an interesting ingredient.

Even though the European authority EFSA has not yet approved any statements regarding the effect of theobromine, the ingredient has made a name for itself as an alternative to caffeine. Some expectant and breastfeeding mothers switch from coffee to cocoa during and after pregnancy.

Cocoa in the different phases of becoming a mother

It is recommended to reduce the amount of cocoa during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, as the fetus is particularly sensitive at this time. Nevertheless, it is always valuable to listen to your own intuition. After all, previous cocoa experience and personal feelings also play a role.

Generally: Always drink only as much as your body wants at that moment. Even if it's just a few sips, that's perfectly sufficient. The rest of the cocoa can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.

Towards the end of pregnancy, the body becomes softer, gentler, and prepares for childbirth. In online guides and mothers' testimonials, it is mentioned that cocoa can induce labor towards the end of pregnancy. It is best to discuss the consumption of cocoa during this phase with your doctor – they might even recommend it shortly before or during labor.

During breastfeeding, we recommend enjoying cocoa after a feeding to combine the intake of several nutrients. According to DGE recommendations, a varied diet is most likely to provide the body with all necessary nutrients. Cocoa can be a delicious component of a multifaceted diet.

Mama Cocoa

Theobroma cacao is not called "Mama Cocoa" for nothing, because it sustains, carries, and strengthens us on a spiritual level. The Mayans already used the power of cocoa during births to facilitate the process for women. Cocoa can be integrated into the birth ritual if it feels right for the mother.