Whether you’re pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding, or simply a mom wanting to reduce caffeine, I’m right there with you. I gave up coffee in 2019 because I could tell it wasn’t serving me anymore. I’m not here to say coffee is “bad,” but I personally feel better without it. I’ll still enjoy a decaf latte on occasion, but on a daily basis I reach for caffeine-free or low-caffeine drinks that feel more grounding and nourishing.
If you love coffee and aren’t ready to let it go completely, there are higher-quality options I recommend: Danger Coffee (mold-free and remineralized) and Carnivore Aurelius, another mold-free option.
Important note: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to remember that caffeine tolerance and herbal safety can vary from person to person. Always consult your physician and/or a board-certified lactation consultant before introducing new herbs, adaptogens, or supplements.
Start With the Base (Your Liquid Foundation)
These are my favorite go-to liquids. Most are pregnancy-safe and breastfeeding-friendly when sourced well and tolerated by your body:
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Raw milk*
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Coconut milk
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Bone broth (a plain bone broth actually disguises quite well in hot cocoa!)
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Water (can be mixed half and half with any of the above if desired)
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Any milk of choice
*Raw milk may not be recommended by your provider during pregnancy.
Nutrient-Dense Add-Ins for Creaminess & Satiety
Next, we have what I like to call “add-ins.” These are often high-fat, nutrient-dense foods that can be blended in for added nutrition and creaminess:
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Butter (about ½–1 tbsp)
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Ghee (about ½–1 tbsp)
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MCT Oil (about ½ tbsp)
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Coconut Oil (about ½ tbsp)
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Collagen Peptides (1 scoop)
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Protein Powder (1 scoop)
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Raw Cream (about ½–1 tbsp)
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Pastured Egg Yolk*
*If pregnant, use only eggs from trusted sources and consult your provider if you have concerns.
Adaptogenic & Herbal Add-Ins (Read Carefully)
Adaptogenic and Herbal Add-Ins: Here are some of my favorite herbal tinctures to add in. I doubt you’ll notice one dropper in there!
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Ashwagandha
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Reishi
Pregnancy & breastfeeding note: Adaptogens and medicinal mushrooms can be incredibly supportive, but they are not universally recommended during pregnancy, and guidance can vary during breastfeeding. These are included as personal favorites and should only be used with approval from your physician and/or a board-certified lactation consultant.
Simple Toppings for Warmth & Comfort
Here are a few toppings you can add in after your drink is made:
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Sprinkle of Ceylon cinnamon powder
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Homemade gelatin marshmallow
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Cacao nibs
Favorite Store-Bought Drink Powders & Recipes
Here are some of my favorite store-bought drink powders and recipes that can be customized any way you’d like!
Rasa
This is an adaptogenic/herbal blend that you brew in a French press or in a loose-leaf tea strainer. This one gives the most similar vibe to coffee. A few ways I like to enjoy this are…
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Black
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Blended with a bit of heavy cream
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Blended with heavy cream or butter (or some sort of fat) and a dash of maple syrup
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Blended with the above and a tbsp of cacao powder for a mocha
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A dash of vanilla extract in any of the options above
Pregnancy note: Review the specific herbs in each blend and consult your provider before use.
MudWtr
This feels very much like a chai latte and has a little bit of caffeine. This can be enjoyed just as is, or blended with a fat and a touch of maple syrup or raw honey for a bit of extra sweetness.
Pregnancy & breastfeeding note: Low-caffeine, but still contains caffeine. Assess personal tolerance.
Four Sigmatic
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Chai — Individual chai packets that are SO yummy as is. Blend with heated milk of choice and add a little fat for extra creaminess, but the flavor as is is super yummy.
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Hot Cocoa — The cocoa is yummy as is, but sometimes I add a touch of maple syrup if I’m craving a little extra sweetness.
Pregnancy note: Review mushroom content and consult your provider.
Homemade Hot Cocoa
This homemade hot cocoa is super nourishing and easy to make!
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Milk of choice (I prefer raw milk)
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Blend with 1 tbsp of cacao powder and 1 tbsp of maple syrup
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Kick up the nutrients with some collagen, ashwagandha or adaptogen, and/or some healthy fats
The Fullest
Saffron latte powder. This is super unique (if you’re familiar with saffron) and yummy and warming. The link gives you a $15 discount!
Pregnancy note: Saffron should be used conservatively and only with provider approval.
Warm Milk (A Family Favorite)
A comforting yet simple drink that our whole family loves!
- Raw milk (or alternative)
- Collagen peptides
- Maple syrup
- Optional egg yolk*
- Sprinkle of cinnamon
Herbal Teas for Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Of course this list wouldn’t be complete without including herbal teas! There are so many blends out there, choose blends that align with your stage of motherhood. High-quality sources I love:
- Mountain Rose Herbs has amazing quality.
- Mama Bear Tea Co.
- Nova Rising has great women’s blends as well (code: ROOTS for discounts to both)
Pregnancy & breastfeeding note: Not all herbs are appropriate for every stage. Always review ingredients and consult a qualified professional.
Having a warm, cozy drink in your hands is so grounding even when it’s not coffee. Whether you’re nourishing your hormones, supporting your postpartum recovery, or just wanting a gentler start to the day, these drinks bring so much comfort and ritual to your morning. Customize to your liking and let us know your favorite in the comments below!
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