Breastfeeding is an incredible time for both moms and babies. The process is beneficial for the baby to get all the essential nutrients through breast milk, and it helps moms shed off the baby weight faster.
However, what you eat while breastfeeding affects your child’s health. Some foods that you consume might pass to the baby through breast milk, causing problems like allergies or tummy aches. Here are ten foods to avoid while breastfeeding:.
1. Caffeine
It’s tempting to grab a cup of coffee or tea to deal with the sleep deprivation and exhaustion during breastfeeding. However, too much caffeine can make the baby irritable and restless.
It’s best to cut down on caffeine or switch to other beverages such as herbal tea or decaf coffee. Drinking plenty of water or fresh juices acts as a natural energy booster for new moms.
2. Alcohol
The amount of alcohol passing through breast milk depends on how much alcohol you drink.
As per the American Academy of Pediatrics, it’s best to avoid alcohol completely while breastfeeding, as too much alcohol might impact the baby’s development and sleep patterns. Even occasional drinking should be avoided for the baby’s health.
3. Fish High in Mercury
Fish like king mackerel, swordfish, or tuna have high levels of mercury, which is harmful to the baby’s nervous system development. However, eating fish is still essential for breastfeeding moms for the omega-3 fatty acids.
It’s best to opt for fishes such as salmon, trout, or herring with low levels of mercury to avoid any health risks.
4. Spicy Foods
Spices like chili powder, cayenne, or paprika can cause gas and discomfort for the baby. The strong flavor of spices might pass through breast milk, and the baby might develop an aversion to some foods.
It’s best to keep your meals simple and incorporate mild spices to avoid any issues for the baby.
5. Dairy Products
Dairy products like cheese, milk, or cream might cause gas and discomfort for the baby. The proteins in dairy products might pass through breast milk and cause allergies or digestive issues.
Moms and babies who have a family history of dairy allergies are more susceptible to such issues. You can replace dairy products with plant-based alternatives like almond milk, tofu, or quinoa yogurt.
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6. Peanuts
Peanuts are a major allergen, and breastfeeding moms should avoid them if they have a family history of allergies. Peanuts might pass through breast milk and cause allergies or eczema for the baby.
Instead, you can choose protein sources like beans, eggs, or chicken which are safe and healthy options.
7. Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, or grapefruits might cause acid reflux or tummy aches for the baby. Citrus fruits might also change the taste of breast milk, and the baby might become fussy or cranky.
Moms can opt for Vitamin C-rich fruits like strawberries, mangoes, or kiwis, which are gentle on the baby’s tummy.
8. Processed Foods
Processed foods like cakes, chips, or frozen dinners have high levels of preservatives, sodium, and sugar. These foods might pass through breast milk and cause obesity issues for the baby.
Instead, breastfeeding moms should follow a clean and healthy diet with lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
9. Soy Products
Soy products like soy sauce or tofu might cause allergic reactions or digestive issues for the baby. Infants who are allergic to cow’s milk might have similar reactions to soy products.
It’s best to stay away from soy products and try other plant-based sources like lentils, chickpeas, or quinoa.
10. Gassy Vegetables
Vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, or cauliflower might cause gas and colic issues for the baby. These vegetables might pass through breast milk and cause discomfort for the baby.
Moms can opt for vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or zucchini, which are packed with essential vitamins and nutrients and are gentle on the baby’s tummy.
Conclusion
Breastfeeding is a critical time, and moms should be mindful of what they eat. The foods mentioned above might cause allergies, digestive issues, or discomfort for the baby.
It’s best to opt for a clean and healthy diet with plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to ensure the baby gets all the essential nutrients without any health issues.
