Can You Drink Bubblr While Pregnant? A Clear Guide

It’s the middle of summer, and you’re hot, tired, and very pregnant. All you want is to get home, put your feet up, and grab a cold, refreshing drink. You open the fridge and your eyes land on a colorful can of Bubblr. It looks so good, but is it safe? The question, "can you drink Bubblr while pregnant?" immediately pops into your head. It’s confusing trying to remember all the drinks to avoid during pregnancy. Let's clear things up so you can find a safe, satisfying sip without the stress.

But you also know you’ll need a drink to sip on before you get there. Pregnancy has amped up your thirst, and you know your hydration needs have been growing as that “poppy seed” in your womb turned into a “grape,” a “tomato,” and, now, the aforementioned “watermelon.” And since you’re not planning to get up once you’re parked in front of the TV and Love Island is on, you want to make sure you have the right one from the get-go.

That’s when the questions start. Can I drink Gatorade while pregnant? What juice is good for pregnancy? And is Bubly sparkling water safe during pregnancy? Let’s explore the best drinks for pregnant women and take a look at what drinks to avoid during pregnancy.

Your Guide to Pregnancy-Safe Hydration

As we’re told by our doctors, midwives, doulas, and everyone who’s ever been pregnant, hydration is key during pregnancy. Of course, water is important for all of us — so important, in fact, that we can’t survive for more than a few days without it. However, pregnancy places extra demands on the body, and those demands call for extra water. Here’s why.

• Water is needed for fetal circulation. The little one is growing inside the womb, and guess what? Their body, just like ours, is largely made of water (more on that later). It’s crucial for their circulation system to bring in nutrients from the placenta in order to keep up with the growing demands of developing organs and tissues. 
• It forms the basis for amniotic fluid. When it comes to fetal development, what’s surrounding the body is just as important as what’s inside. And what’s amniotic fluid made of? Mostly water! That’s the water that “breaks” at the first stages of labor. (By the way, it’s not always quite as dramatic as it sounds, although TV shows might have you thinking otherwise. For Phoebe on Friends, it’s the highlight of the day: “Remember when my water broke?!” In real life, you might not even notice the extra leak with everything else going on.)
• We need fluids to build up extra blood volume. Did you know that your blood volume increases by about 50% during pregnancy? Yowza! That’s some hefty blood production going on behind the scenes. 
• Hydration helps reduce swelling. Wait, what? Drinking water helps reduce water retention? That’s right! Counterintuitive as it may seem, taking in more fluids helps the body release the extra water it’s holding on to.

How much should we be drinking exactly? Doctors recommend about 8–10 8-oz. glasses a day, but everyone’s needs are different and some people require more than that, especially those living in a hotter climate. 

Keep in mind that “water” doesn’t have to mean plain old H2O. (Great news for those of us who can’t quite stomach the bland taste.) But what exactly “counts” as healthy hydration? It’s time to take a look at some healthy drinks for pregnancy, starting with the best drinks for pregnant women and moving on to ones we should approach with caution.

What Are the Best Drinks for Pregnancy?

What are the best drinks for pregnant women, and is there one best pregnancy hydration drink? Let’s dive right in!

1. Water: Your Non-Negotiable Thirst Quencher

As we already said, water is where it’s at, biologically speaking. An adult’s body is about 60% water, but a newborn baby’s is close to 78%! Water is the cornerstone of all body functions, and its importance skyrockets during pregnancy. 

At the same time, you might be one of those people who can’t stomach the taste of plain water. Between morning sickness, odd cravings, and changes in our senses during pregnancy, the very thought of turning on the tap and gulping down glass after glass might have us gagging or running for the bathroom. 

If that’s you, don’t worry! There are many ways to make water more palatable.

• Add electrolyte powder. Adding electrolyte powder will not only enhance the taste, but it will also boost the drink’s hydration power.
• Try sparkling water. You might be wondering, can I drink flavored sparkling water while pregnant? The answer is a resounding yes. (Phew!) Just as hydrating, those tangy bubbles make sparkling water taste a bit more exciting. Plus, there are many flavored varieties that add a fruity punch — just make sure it’s not loaded with sugar. Bubly has zero added sugars or artificial flavors, making it a great choice. But there are others as well — for example, Perrier, Pellegrino, La Croix, and Canada Dry’s plain seltzer.
• Go nuts for coconut water. A natural isotonic beverage, coconut water helps you stay hydrated while replenishing lost electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium. It’s especially helpful in the third trimester, when dehydration can cause contractions.

Science fact: Coconut water makes for a great plasma substitute. Hopefully it won’t ever come to that for any of us, but if it does, it’s good to know that it’s sterile and has an electrolyte balance similar to our blood.

Daily Hydration Goals

The classic advice is to aim for eight to ten 8-ounce glasses of water daily, but think of that as your starting point, not a strict rule. Everyone’s body is different, and your personal needs can change based on factors like your activity level or if you live in a hot climate. During pregnancy, your body is working overtime to support fetal circulation and build a higher blood volume, so listening to its thirst cues is more important than ever. Don’t get too hung up on hitting an exact number; instead, focus on sipping consistently throughout the day and paying attention to how you feel. A great way to stay on track is to keep a reusable water bottle handy at all times — on your desk, in your car, and on your nightstand.

A Note on Mineral and Bottled Water

If plain water feels like a chore, here's some great news: sparkling water is a fantastic, pregnancy-safe alternative. Many women find that the carbonation can even help soothe an upset stomach or ease feelings of morning sickness. Just be sure to choose options without a lot of added sugar or artificial ingredients. And remember, hydration doesn't have to be boring. Whether you prefer mineral water, filtered tap water, or bottled spring water, the most important thing is that you’re drinking it. The goal is to find a healthy, enjoyable way to give your body the fluids it needs to thrive during this special time.

2. Ginger Tea: A Natural Fix for Morning Sickness

Remember that morning sickness we mentioned earlier? Ginger can work wonders at relieving it. But there’s more! Here’s a look into the science-backed benefits of ginger:

• It has anti-inflammatory properties. A natural antioxidant powerhouse, ginger inhibits oxidative stress and scavenges free radicals in the body. ​​Its anti-inflammatory powers are primarily attributed to gingerols, which inhibit enzymes in the inflammatory pathway and even protect us from cancer.
• It’s great for the heart. Scientists have found that ginger lowers cholesterol levels and might prevent blood clotting, protecting the heart and reducing our chances of having a heart attack or stroke. 
• It helps stabilize blood sugar. Another perk of ginger? It helps regulate blood sugar levels by influencing insulin release and sensitivity. Recent studies actually found that ginger can be a useful way to stave off gestational diabetes.
• It’s a natural pain reliever. Pregnancy comes with aches and pains, and ginger can provide much-needed relief! Studies have shown that ginger is effective in reducing pain, especially the pain associated with menstrual discomfort and certain types of arthritis. Once again, this power stems from its anti-inflammatory properties.
• It helps digestion. In addition to easing nausea, ginger helps our digestive system run more smoothly. And since constipation is another common gripe during pregnancy, this property makes ginger a double win!

Science fact: Ginger has antibacterial properties and makes a great natural preservative. This property comes from the bioactive compounds known as gingerols and shogaols, which give ginger its microbe-fighting powers. So in addition to adding a boost of flavor to food and beverages, it can actually work double duty and extend the shelf life of other items it shares the pantry with! 

3. Milk: Building Strong Bones for Two

That growing baby has a skeleton to build, and what are bones made of? Calcium! Milk is one of the best sources of this important mineral. Plus, it provides much-needed proteins and vitamin D. And while it might not be the first drink that comes to mind when we think of hydration, milk is actually 90% water, so it’s more than capable of relieving our thirst. 

Not a fan of regular milk? No problem! Kefir and yogurt drinks offer all the benefits of milk with an added bonus — probiotic cultures that help digestion.

Science fact: A cow produces about 200,000 glasses of milk in her lifetime — plenty of calcium to go around!

Meeting Your Daily Calcium Needs

So, how much calcium are we talking about? Health experts recommend that pregnant women aged 19 and older get 1,000 mg of calcium per day, while those 18 and under should aim for 1,300 mg. This mineral is a powerhouse, working hard to build your baby’s tiny bones and teeth. But it’s also crucial for you — if you don’t get enough through your diet, your baby will draw calcium from your own bones, which can affect your health down the road. A single glass of milk provides about 300 mg, getting you nearly a third of the way to your goal. If dairy isn’t your thing, you can easily meet your needs with fortified orange juice, plant-based milks like soy or almond, or a smoothie blended with yogurt and leafy greens.

What About Caffeinated & Sparkling Drinks?

While the following drinks are not off-limits during pregnancy, it’s wise to approach them with a bit more caution.

1. Herbal Teas: Which Blends Are Safe?

All those wholesome-looking boxes of herbal tea at organic food stores might automatically fall into the “healthy” category in our mind, but tread carefully! If you’re pregnant, some herbal teas are safe, but others can have adverse effects.

Many herbal teas provide benefits during pregnancy:

• Rooibos is full of antioxidants, which support the immune system and protect both mom and baby from infections.
• Lemon balm is calming and works wonders as a natural sleep aid.

However, others are better to avoid for these few months:

• Peppermint can cause heartburn, which tends to get worse during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. (Trust us, you don’t need anything else waking you up at 3 a.m.)
• Saint-John’s-wort used to be considered off-limits during pregnancy, as it was thought to cause birth defects and miscarriage. While recent studies paint a milder picture, it’s best to be careful and consult with your doctor if you have doubts.
• Licorice root has been found to raise blood pressure in pregnant women.
• Black cohosh can stimulate contractions or induce labor and should be avoided, especially in the first trimester and during lactation.

Always make sure to check with your doctor if you have questions about herbs or supplements, especially during pregnancy.

How Much Herbal Tea Is Safe?

Even with teas that get the green light, moderation is your best friend. A general guideline is to stick to one or two cups per day, but this isn't a universal rule. The potency of herbs can vary, and how your body reacts is unique. Before you start brewing, it’s a great idea to chat with your doctor or midwife. They can offer personalized advice based on your health history and the specific tea you’re considering. This ensures you can safely enjoy a comforting cup without any worry, making an informed choice that’s best for both you and your little one.

2. Sports Drinks: Are They a Good Choice?

Another candidate for confusion? Gatorade. Developed in 1965 by a team of researchers at the University of Florida, this American staple fills the coolers of many sports teams and was originally intended to help the university’s football team stay hydrated under the scorching sun. (Hence the name, inspired by the team's mascot — go Gators!)

Given that replenishing electrolytes is crucial during pregnancy, you might be wondering, can I drink gatorade while pregnant? Well, the answer is — maybe. For those engaging in intense physical exercise or are going through frequent bouts of vomiting or diarrhea, Gatorade could be a good choice. In addition to helping maintain electrolyte levels, it also provides a quick source of energy due to its high sugar content.

But is gatorade good for pregnancy across the board? Not necessarily. For one thing, it’s notoriously high in sugar, which can add to unwanted weight gain while increasing the risk of gestational diabetes. 

And those eye-catching bright colors? Well, if they look a bit artificial, that’s because they are. Unlike the sparking water we mentioned earlier, Gatorade is full of artificial ingredients.

A Better Alternative: If you're looking for hydration and electrolyte balance without the high sugar content, consider making a homemade electrolyte drink using water, a small amount of sugar, salt, and natural flavoring like lemon juice. This provides the hydration and electrolyte replacement without the added chemicals and excessive sugars.

               

3. Fruit Juice: How Much Is Too Much?

What’s the best juice to drink when pregnant? As it turns out, it depends. Juices made from fresh fruits and vegetables are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, which help support a healthy pregnancy. Here are the highlights:

• Orange juice is rich in vitamin C, which enhances iron absorption — a crucial element during pregnancy to prevent anemia. It also boosts immune health, helping both mother and baby stay healthy.
• Apple juice offers a good source of potassium and iron. It’s also rich in polyphenols, which have cardiovascular benefits.
• Beetroot juice is known to improve circulation and can help increase blood flow to the placenta. The magic ingredient? Nitrates, which are converted to nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide causes blood vessels to expand, allowing nutrients and oxygen to have a smooth ride along the circulation superhighway.
• Kale and spinach juices are nutrient powerhouses. (Popeye swore by spinach, and he had a point!) Both are loaded with folic acid, which is crucial for the development of the baby’s neural tube (the precursor to the central nervous system).

However, before going on a juice craze, beware: not all are created equal. While fresh-squeezed juices are a healthy choice for pregnant and nonpregnant folks alike, the store-bought variety can be a sugar-saturated diet disaster. Another important consideration? Make sure it’s pasteurized. Unpasteurized juices can carry bacteria such as E. coli, salmonella, or listeria, which are harmful during pregnancy.

Plus, while juices are generally a good choice during pregnancy, nothing beats whole fruits and vegetables. In addition to all the benefits of juice, they are chock-full of fiber, which aids digestion and helps us feel full.

Getting Enough Vitamin C

Speaking of vitamins, let’s talk about Vitamin C. This powerhouse nutrient is a must-have during pregnancy, and citrus juices are a fantastic way to get it. Vitamin C does more than just fend off colds; it plays a crucial role in helping your body absorb iron from plant-based foods. This is incredibly important because your body is working overtime to produce more blood for you and your baby, and iron is the key ingredient for making red blood cells. Getting enough iron helps prevent pregnancy anemia, which can leave you feeling exhausted. A daily glass of orange juice can support your immune system and help keep your energy levels up.

4. A Closer Look at Bubblr

Sparkling water can be a lifesaver when you’re craving something more exciting than plain water. One popular option is Bubblr, an antioxidant sparkling water that boasts some appealing benefits. It’s low in sugar, vegan, and uses natural flavors and colors, which sounds great on the surface. It’s marketed as a healthier alternative to soda, with added vitamins to support your immune system. But when you’re pregnant, it’s always smart to look a little closer at the label. While it might seem like a simple, bubbly treat, a few ingredients in Bubblr are worth examining before you make it your go-to pregnancy drink.

The Concern with Vitamin A

One of the first things you might notice on a can of Bubblr is its Vitamin A content. Each can contains 450mcg, which is about 50% of the recommended daily amount. While Vitamin A is essential for your baby’s developing organs, eyes, and bones, it’s a nutrient where more isn’t necessarily better. In fact, excessive amounts of certain types of Vitamin A (specifically preformed Vitamin A, or retinol) have been linked to birth defects. Since you’re also getting Vitamin A from prenatal vitamins and other foods, it’s easy to go over the recommended limit without realizing it. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on your total intake and chat with your doctor about it.

Caffeine, Guarana, and Other Additives

Another key ingredient to note in Bubblr is caffeine. But it’s not just listed as “caffeine”; the drink also contains guarana seed extract. Guarana is a plant native to the Amazon, and its seeds contain about twice the concentration of caffeine found in coffee beans. This means you’re getting a double dose of stimulants. While the total caffeine amount in one can might fall within the safe daily limit for pregnancy, it’s something you need to account for. If you’ve already had a morning coffee or some tea, adding a can of Bubblr could push you closer to that 200 mg daily caffeine ceiling than you think.

What About the Sweetener Erythritol?

To keep its sugar content low, Bubblr uses erythritol, a type of sugar alcohol. Erythritol occurs naturally in some fruits and fermented foods and is a common sugar substitute because it has virtually no calories. For the most part, it’s considered safe to consume during pregnancy. However, some people find that sugar alcohols can cause digestive upset, like bloating or gas, especially in large amounts. Since pregnancy can already make your digestive system a bit sensitive, it’s worth paying attention to how your body reacts. If you find it causes you any discomfort, you might want to choose a different sparkling water.

5. Understanding Caffeine Risks and Limits

Caffeine is one of the most talked-about topics when it comes to pregnancy nutrition. For many of us, a morning cup of coffee is a non-negotiable ritual, so the thought of giving it up can be daunting. The good news is that you don’t necessarily have to eliminate it completely. However, medical experts agree that it’s important to moderate your intake. The reason for this caution is that caffeine is a stimulant that can cross the placenta and reach your baby. Since your baby’s metabolism is still developing, it can’t process caffeine as efficiently as you can, which is why setting clear limits is so important for their health.

Why You Should Limit Caffeine

When you consume caffeine, it increases your heart rate and blood pressure, and it can do the same for your baby. Because a fetus’s system is so immature, it can’t break down the caffeine effectively, meaning it stays in their bloodstream for longer. High levels of caffeine consumption during pregnancy have been associated with an increased risk of certain complications, including miscarriage and low birth weight. Limiting your intake helps reduce these risks and supports a healthier environment for your baby’s development. It’s a small adjustment that can make a big difference in ensuring your little one gets the best possible start.

Staying Under the 200 mg Guideline

So, what does 200 milligrams of caffeine actually look like? It’s roughly the amount in one 12-ounce cup of brewed coffee. However, caffeine content can vary widely depending on the type of bean and brewing method. An 8-ounce cup of black tea has around 50 mg, while a can of cola has about 40 mg. To stay under the guideline, it’s helpful to be mindful of all the sources in your diet, including less obvious ones like chocolate, some pain relievers, and drinks containing guarana. Reading labels and maybe even switching to decaf or half-caf can make it easier to enjoy your favorite drinks without worry.

Drinks to Completely Avoid During Pregnancy

Finally, there are also a few drinks that are better to leave in the pantry (or the grocery store) until your little one is born (and maybe even afterwards!). Here’s the gist:

• Alcohol is a definite no-go. It’s a well-known fact that alcohol harms the unborn baby. While the risk is highest in the first trimester when the neural tube that forms the basis of the nervous system is developing, there’s never a safe time for booze in those crucial nine months. (For more information, check out “What Are the Risks of Drinking Alcohol While Pregnant?”)
• Caffeine isn’t great, especially in large amounts. Moderate amounts of caffeine are okay during pregnancy, so if you really need that cup of java to get going in the morning, don’t feel too guilty about it. Still, better to err on the side of safety and not overdo it.
• Sugary soft drinks won’t do you any favors. With no nutritional value and large amounts of sugar, soft drinks increase the risk of gestational diabetes without offering anything in return. For that reason, it’s best to avoid them during pregnancy — and maybe even beyond. After all, nobody needs the extra calories or the risk of diabetes in the long run. (One exception is that sugar bomb they give you to test for gestational diabetes during your third trimester. That one’s okay to drink.)

1. Alcohol

This one is probably the least surprising, but it’s the most important: alcohol is a definite no-go during pregnancy. It’s a well-known fact that alcohol can seriously harm a developing baby. The risk is highest during the first trimester when the crucial neural tube is forming, which later becomes the baby's brain and spinal cord. However, there is no known safe amount of alcohol to drink at any point during those nine months. It’s best to switch to fun mocktails and other pregnancy-safe alternatives to ensure your baby gets the best possible start. If you’re finding it difficult to stop drinking, know that support is available, and you can always talk to your doctor about your concerns.

2. Energy Drinks

When pregnancy fatigue hits, reaching for an energy drink might seem like a quick fix, but it’s best to steer clear. These drinks often contain very high levels of caffeine and other stimulants that aren’t recommended for expecting mothers. Caffeine can cross the placenta, and high amounts have been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and low birth weight. Beyond the caffeine, many energy drinks are also packed with sugar and other additives that don’t offer any nutritional benefits for you or your baby. If you need a pick-me-up, a small cup of coffee (under 200 mg of caffeine) is generally considered safe, but a brisk walk or a quick nap might be an even better option.

3. Unpasteurized (Raw) Milk and Juices

Grabbing a fresh-pressed juice from a local cafe or raw milk from a farmer's market might feel like a healthy choice, but during pregnancy, it’s a risk you don’t want to take. Unpasteurized products can harbor dangerous bacteria like Listeria, Salmonella, and E. coli, which can be incredibly harmful to a developing fetus and could lead to serious infections or complications. Always check the label to ensure any milk, cheese, or juice you consume is pasteurized. This simple step kills off harmful bacteria, making these products safe for you to enjoy. When in doubt, it’s always better to choose the pasteurized option or skip it altogether.

4. Kombucha

Kombucha has become a popular health drink, praised for its probiotic benefits. However, it’s not recommended during pregnancy for a couple of important reasons. First, the fermentation process produces a small amount of alcohol. While the level is typically low, no amount of alcohol is considered safe during pregnancy. Second, most kombucha is unpasteurized to preserve its live cultures, which means it carries the same risk of harmful bacteria as raw milk or juice. The combination of potential alcohol content and the risk of bacterial contamination makes it a beverage to put on hold until after your baby arrives. You can get your probiotics from safer sources like pasteurized yogurt or kefir.

5. Tonic Water

A gin and tonic might be off the table, but what about just the tonic water? It’s best to be cautious with this one, too. Tonic water contains an ingredient called quinine, which gives it its signature bitter taste. While you’d have to drink a lot of it to cause a problem (more than a liter a day), high amounts of quinine have been linked to withdrawal symptoms in newborns. Given this potential risk, it’s wise to limit your intake and drink tonic water only occasionally, if at all. If you’re craving something bubbly and a little bitter, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime or grapefruit is a much safer bet.

Making Healthy Choices for You and Baby

Pregnancy can be a confusing time, but choosing what to drink doesn’t have to be! If you want to learn more about “hydrating for two,” check out our blog “Pregnancy Beverages: What To Drink and What To Avoid.” Have a happy pregnancy!

Frequently Asked Questions

I find plain water so boring. Besides sparkling water, what are some other good ways to stay hydrated? I completely get it — sometimes plain water just doesn't cut it. A great option is coconut water, which is naturally packed with electrolytes like potassium. You can also try adding electrolyte powder to your water for a flavor and hydration kick. Another fantastic choice is milk or a yogurt drink like kefir. Not only are they mostly water, but they also provide the calcium your growing baby needs for strong bones.

The article mentions Bubblr, but what's the general rule for other "healthy" energy or vitamin drinks? That's a great question because so many drinks are marketed as healthy alternatives. The best approach is to become a label detective. Look closely at the caffeine content, especially if it comes from sources like guarana, which is more concentrated than coffee. Also, check the vitamin amounts. While vitamins are good, it's possible to get too much of certain ones, like Vitamin A, especially when you're already taking a prenatal supplement. When in doubt, it's always best to stick with simpler drinks or chat with your doctor.

Why is it so important to choose pasteurized juices and milk? Pasteurization is a simple heating process that kills harmful bacteria, like Listeria and E. coli, without affecting the nutritional value. During pregnancy, your immune system is naturally a bit suppressed, making you more vulnerable to foodborne illnesses that could be serious for both you and your baby. Sticking to pasteurized products is an easy and effective way to keep you both safe from these dangerous bacteria.

I'm struggling with morning sickness. Are sports drinks like Gatorade a good idea? While sports drinks can help replenish electrolytes if you're dealing with severe morning sickness, they aren't always the best first choice for regular hydration. The main issue is their high sugar content, which can contribute to unwanted weight gain and isn't ideal for managing blood sugar. If you're feeling very dehydrated, they can be helpful in a pinch, but for daily sipping, you might be better off with coconut water or a homemade electrolyte drink made with water, a little salt, and a splash of juice.

I'm used to drinking a lot of herbal tea. How can I be sure the ones I choose are safe? Navigating herbal teas can be tricky since some are beneficial while others aren't recommended during pregnancy. Teas like rooibos and ginger are generally considered safe and can even be helpful. However, others like licorice root or black cohosh should be avoided. The safest bet is to consult your doctor or midwife. They can give you personalized advice and a clear list of which teas are perfectly fine to enjoy and which ones you should save for after the baby arrives.

Key Takeaways

• Hydration is more than just water: Staying hydrated is crucial, but you have options beyond the tap. Safe and beneficial choices include sparkling water, coconut water, milk, and certain herbal teas like ginger and rooibos.
• Always check the label: Seemingly healthy drinks can contain ingredients to watch out for. Pay attention to total caffeine (especially from sources like guarana), added sugars in juices and sports drinks, and ensure all dairy and juices are pasteurized.
• Some drinks are a hard pass: For a healthy pregnancy, completely avoid all alcohol, energy drinks, unpasteurized products like raw milk or kombucha, and beverages containing quinine, such as tonic water.

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