Although most foods are safe to eat while breastfeeding, certain foods and substances can affect your baby through breast milk. Here’s a list of foods and drinks you may want to limit or avoid to ensure both you and your baby stay healthy and comfortable.
Why to avoid: Caffeine can pass through breast milk and potentially disrupt your baby’s sleep or make them irritable.
Limit: It’s recommended to keep caffeine intake to less than 300 mg per day (about 2-3 cups of coffee).
Sources: Coffee, tea, chocolate, energy drinks, and some soft drinks.
2. Alcohol
Why to avoid: Alcohol can pass into breast milk, and consuming large amounts can impair your baby’s motor development and sleep patterns.
Guideline: If you drink, wait at least 2-3 hours per drink before breastfeeding to allow the alcohol to clear from your system.
Tip: You can “pump and dump” milk after drinking to avoid passing alcohol to your baby.
3. Certain Fish (High in Mercury)
Why to avoid: Fish high in mercury can pass through breast milk and harm your baby’s developing nervous system.
Avoid: Shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish.
Safe Alternatives: Choose low-mercury fish like salmon, shrimp, tilapia, and canned light tuna, which are safe to eat 2-3 times per week.
4. Spicy Foods
Why to avoid: While many babies tolerate spicy foods well, some may experience fussiness or digestive discomfort after feeding.
Consider: If your baby becomes fussy after you eat spicy foods, try limiting them to see if it makes a difference.
5. Allergenic Foods (for Sensitive Babies)
Why to avoid: Some babies may be sensitive to common allergens like dairy, soy, peanuts, or shellfish, which could cause fussiness, rashes, or digestive issues.
Watch for signs: If your baby shows symptoms of food sensitivity, try eliminating that food from your diet and consult a healthcare provider.
6. Gassy Vegetables
Why to avoid: Foods like broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts may cause gassiness in some breastfed babies.
Trial and error: If your baby becomes gassy or uncomfortable after you eat these vegetables, try removing them from your diet temporarily to see if symptoms improve.
7. Excessive Sugar and Processed Foods
Why to avoid: Foods high in added sugars and highly processed foods may not offer the nutrients needed for optimal milk production and can negatively impact both your health and energy levels.
Opt for: Whole foods, like fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, to ensure balanced nutrition for you and your baby.
8. Artificial Sweeteners
Why to avoid: Some artificial sweeteners like saccharin have been found to enter breast milk, and though most are considered safe in moderation, it’s best to limit intake of non-nutritive sweeteners.
Safe options: Natural sweeteners like stevia and monk fruit can be used as alternatives in small amounts.
Conclusion
While breastfeeding, it’s important to eat a balanced diet and stay mindful of certain foods that could affect your baby. Caffeine, alcohol, and mercury-rich fish should be limited, while allergenic and spicy foods should be monitored for any signs of discomfort in your baby. By being aware of these foods and their effects, you can provide the best nutrition for both yourself and your baby.
Sign Up For Daily Newsletter
Be keep up! Get the latest breaking news delivered straight to your inbox.
By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the data practices in our Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe at any time.
