Is it safe to drink coffee during pregnancy?

Here's eye-opening news for many mothers-to-be: Experts at the American Dietetic Association address the question of whether pregnant women can safely drink coffee in a new book.

"Expect the Best: Your Guide to Healthy Eating Before, During, & After Pregnancy" by registered dietitian Elizabeth M. Ward gives practical advice based on the latest scientific research about the relationship between diet and pregnancy.

"As a registered dietitian and a mother of three, I know how difficult it is to wade through all of the news regarding diet and pregnancy," Ward said.

Caffeine is a stimulant that slightly increases blood pressure and heart rate. Nevertheless, "most experts agree that a small amount of caffeine each day is safe during pregnancy," Ward said.

"A more important issue is that drinking too many beverages with caffeine may crowd other more nutritious choices, such as milk and 100 percent juice, out of your diet, so choose wisely," Ward said.

This story provided by North American Precis Syndicate Inc.