Scientists have been debating for years about the effects of coffee on our health. As studies show, coffee is a definite “No” when it comes to pregnancy and fertility.

A study conducted by Yale University School of Medicine examined a possible correlation between coffee intake and an increased risk of infertility in approximately 1900 women (Yale University School of Medicine, Epidemiological Reviews Vol. 14, pg. 83, 1992). This study found that women drinking 1 cup of coffee per day had a 55% higher risk of infertility. This was increased to 100% at 1.5-3 cups per day, and 176% at more than 3 cups per day. Another European study showed very similar results. Although more research is needed, beginning studies show a link between coffee consumption in men and delayed conception rates.

A large study conducted at Kaiser Permanente San Francisco showed that caffeine intake of 200 mg or more per day (2 cups of coffee) doubled the risk of miscarriage. Many studies have linked coffee intake during pregnancy with reduced fetal growth and birth weight in infants.

Please pass this information on to any parents of young children you might know.

Six weeks ago the FDA recalled Hyland’s Teething Tablets, a very popular homeopathic supplement used to ease the discomfort of teething in infants and toddlers. To this date many parents are unaware of this. According to the FDA the reason behind the recall were inconsistent amounts of Belladonna found in the product.

Belladonna is a plant that has been used in traditional and alternative medicine for centuries in a myriad of treatments ranging from headaches, peptic ulcers, and inflammation to IBS, motion sickness, and menstrual symptoms. In homeopathy it is often used for acute pain and inflammation. In large doses it can be extremely toxic.

Although constituents of homeopathic remedies are usually extremely diluted the FDA received reports of serious adverse reactions in children who took this product. The manufacturer of Hyland’s Teething Tablets stated that a conclusive link has not been determined.

Although my 14 month old daughter never seemed to experience any adverse reactions I naturally decided to discontinue the use of Hyland’s Teething Tablets.