Nursing your baby is the most enjoyable moment for all new mothers. This is a very important phase of your baby’s growth as their main source of nutrition is from the mother’s milk only. If you are a new mom then you might consider what to eat and what not to. We have listed the top 17 foods to avoid while breastfeeding. Diet and nutrition are very essential for breastfeeding moms and there are certain foods you need to avoid. Read to know more!
Foods to avoid while breastfeeding
You might have noticed your baby getting frustrated and crying after you breastfeed them. This shows that they are not satisfied or ingesting something which irritates their digestive system. Keep reading to know the food items you need to stop consuming immediately if you are breastfeeding.
Caffeine
Your baby is getting its share from you! Beverages that contain caffeine must be avoided. As an adult, you can break down the content but infants will not be able to and they might get fussy. You might also see changes in their sleeping pattern if you consume caffeine-loaded items. Avoid cola, coffee, and other beverages that have a huge amount of caffeine.
Read more on Types of Coffee.
Alcohol
You might have not consumed alcohol when you were pregnant! The same should be followed if you are breastfeeding as well. As alcohol can harm your baby’s liver you need to avoid alcohol. If you happen to consume it then you need to wait at least a couple of hours to breastfeed your baby.
Chocolate
Chocolate has a similar element to caffeine. Studies have shown that consuming about 20g of chocolate per day will not harm the baby but more than that can cause the baby to be fussy and face sleep difficulties.
High sugary foods
High-sugar foods will not just cause diabetes but also lead to obesity. This will lead to unhealthy weight gain for the babies as well, which will result in obesity, and might also affect the baby’s brain health.
Spices
Your baby’s digestive system might take time to form so even a small amount of spicy food that you consume can irritate their digestive system. But you don’t have to stop taking it completely as they are also rich in antioxidants. Anything minimal is not going to harm so be careful with the intake amount.
Wheat
If you are gluten intolerant then your baby could also be the same. This might result in bloody stools and fussy moods. So, stop taking them until you stop breastfeeding. Slowly you can introduce wheat when you start the solids.
Raw foods
Raw foods are a big no! When the food is not cooked properly it might lead to food poisoning which can result in infections that might also get into the breast milk. So never consume any raw meat or unpasteurized milk.
Fatty foods
Fatty foods are always dangerous whether you breastfeed or not. Consuming junk foods or fatty foods can affect your baby’s development. So avoid late-night snacks, burgers, and carbs that are loaded with oils and fats.
Gassy Foods
Your baby can have colic if you take so many gassy foods like cauliflower, cabbage, and others. This will affect your baby’s digestive health as well causing them to be gassy and cry in pain.
High Mercury Fish
Never consume fish that have high mercury content as they contain mercury which can be harmful for mothers and babies that rely on breastmilk. Sharks, mackerel, and others are fishes that have high mercury, so avoid them. If you crave those fishes then reduce the intake or choose some other fish that doesn’t have large amounts of mercury.
Herbs
There are certain herbs that you need to avoid while lactating. This includes parsley, sage, and others but studies haven’t proven anything yet, it’s just an old – wives’ tale. So, talk to your doctor or a lactation consultant before consuming personal advice.
Read more on Foods That Burn Belly Fat Fast
Herbal Supplements
Never take herbal supplements unless your doctor prescribes you to consume them. As these supplements might have heavy metals which can cause serious health issues.
Teas
The next in 17 Foods to Avoid while Breastfeeding is Tea. Not all teas but specific ones can cause side effects. Never take peppermint, parsley, or lemongrass teas. Ask your doctor whether you can take it or not.
Soy and Milk based products
These two products are very hard to digest for your baby. You can take foods that are rich in protein alternatively. Soy products are also not safe for breastfeeding moms and they might cause colic and other health issues for your baby.
Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits might be rich in Vitamin C but not when you are breastfeeding. They can cause diaper rash and colic for your baby. So, avoid consuming lemons, oranges, and other citrus fruits.
Garlic
Foods with a strong smell such as Garlic can cause the breast milk to taste and smell different. If you are consuming garlic on a daily basis and in large amounts then your baby might have aversions towards it. This could result in a disturbed breastfeeding experience.
Read more on Healthy Foods That Make You Poop
Peanuts
Peanuts can cause allergies! But there isn’t any study regarding that for breastfeeding moms. Avoid taking them if you feel it can cause an allergic reaction. Talk to a healthcare provider and take precautionary measures.
FAQs
Q1. What are the foods that can cause colic in babies?
Gassy foods like cauliflower, beans, and dairy products can cause colic in babies.
Q2. What to avoid eating while breastfeeding?
The food items mentioned above are the list that you should avoid eating while breastfeeding.
Q3. What to eat while breastfeeding?
Vegetables like beets, spinach, lentils, and others are some of the best foods to eat while breastfeeding.
Conclusion
Now you the top 17 foods to avoid while breastfeeding! It is essential to maintain a balanced diet while nursing. Make sure to consume foods that are rich in protein and good fats. Ask your doctor what to eat while nursing. Enjoy motherhood.