4 Foods That Breastfeeding Mothers Should Avoid During Their Lactation Period

Nutrition For Breastfeeding Mothers: Breastfeeding is vital for the baby’s growth and development. It is one of the most effective ways to ensure the development and overall health of an infant. As breast milk is the ideal food for infants, it provides the nutrients and energy that a baby needs during the initial months.

When a woman goes through her lactation period, she needs to be mindful of the foods she consumes in order to help fuel the milk production. Eating a variety of foods while breastfeeding will change the flavour of your breast milk and help your baby to have different tastes.

Watch the video below about benefits of breastfeeding over bottle-feeding:

According to Dr Manisha Khalane, Lactation Consultant at Surya Mother and Child Super Speciality Hospital, Pune that the diet of breastfeeding mothers should include foods that are rich in protein, such as lean meats, eggs, dairy, beans, and lentils, as these contribute to the development and growth of the baby. Similarly, it is also important to keep in mind to avoid certain foods during the lactating period. Dr Khalane lists down some foods that breastfeeding mothers should avoid including in their diet.

1. Fish

Fish with high mercury content can be harmful to the baby's developing nervous system. Opting for low-mercury fish in this case, would ensure a safer choice for nursing mothers.

2. Alcohol

Lactating mothers should avoid consuming alcohol. Consuming alcohol above moderate levels through breast milk could be damaging to an infant's development, growth, and sleep patterns. Alcohol consumption above moderate levels may also impair a mother's judgement and ability to safely care for her child. Dr Khalane says that excessive drinking can negatively impact the baby's development and well-being. It is, thus, advised that breastfeeding mothers limit their alcohol intake and allow at least two hours to pass after drinking before breastfeeding again.

3. Caffeine

Consuming too many amounts of caffeine can lead to increased tiredness and irritability. Therefore, caffeine should be consumed in moderation as too much caffeine can make babies irritable and disrupt their sleep patterns.

4. Spicy Foods

Spicy foods generally lead to digestive problems such as bloating, gas, or rashes that can affect the quality of your breast milk. They can lead to discomfort for some babies, which is why it is essential to monitor the baby's reactions and adjust the mother's intake of spicy foods accordingly.