Six things to avoid while breastfeeding
What you consume when you are breastfeeding goes directly into your milk and then into your child when you breastfeed. Like the list of things to avoid when your are pregnant the six things to avoid while breastfeeding should sound familiar.
Alcohol – alcohol is not good (think dangerous) for a developing child. If you have a drink give yourself at least two hours per drink portion before you breastfeed. This will allow your body to process the alcohol out of your system. Check with your doctor for a time frame best suited to your situation.
Smoking – smoking can decrease your milk supply and nicotine can be passed to your baby through your breast milk. Quitting smoking is one of the greatest challenges that you are likely to face. Check with your doctor to find the best way for you to provide your baby the best breast milk possible.
Drugs – check with your doctor before taking any medication, even over the counter products as they can at the very least change the taste of your breast milk.
Heavy workouts – high quantities of exercise increases lactic acid in your breasts. This mainly causes a change of taste in your breast milk. generally this is not a problem for most breastfeeding mothers.
Peanuts – this is mainly a concern if there is a history of peanut allergies in your family or you plan on donating your breast milk to another person.
Caffeine, spicy, or acidic food – these can cause a change of taste in your breastmilk and may cause similar effects as you experience only more intensely in your child.
Although there are more than six things to avoid while breastfeeding these are the most common things that you will encounter. Be sure to check with your doctor or lactation consultant if you have any questions or concerns.
