As a breastfeeding mother, nutrition is essential for your baby’s digestive health. Everything you eat is directly passed through breast milk into your baby. You must watch what you want during this period.
While you kept off certain meals during pregnancy, you may need to avoid a few for your baby’s safety. Here are five common foods you should avoid:
- Alcohol
Nine months away from alcohol can be tempting. However, drinking alcohol as a nursing mother isn’t safe. Occasional sips of wine may seem fine, but if you’re a moderate to heavy drinker, it is best to avoid beer or any alcoholic drink.
Alcohol can pass through breast milk and into your baby’s digestive system. Alcohol is very harmful to babies and may result in digestive problems.
- High-mercury fish
It is essential to not consume high-mercury fish in pregnancy. And the same goes for postpartum as a nursing mother. Avoid high mercury fishes at all costs to prevent anomalies in your baby. They include king mackerel, shark, and other predator fish.
- Coffee
Coffee contains caffeine, which is not safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Caffeine is present in energy drinks, herbal teas and sodas. When you constantly consume them, caffeine deposits end up in your breast milk. When your baby sucks, the caffeine stays in their system for a long time, and it may cause irritation, sleeplessness and allergic reactions.
- Kanwa (Potash)
Kanwa, known as potash, is a popular Nigerian condiment in soups and other meals. Potash is an alkaline substance that may cause digestive problems, electrolyte imbalance and other health problems. While this is controversial for a nursing mother, it is best to avoid adding it to your soups, beans, stew, and other meals.
- Spicy foods
You may want to explore spicy dishes you couldn’t eat during pregnancy. However, spices like garlic and cloves should be taken in moderation. It may be discomforting for your baby. Moderation is key.
Adequate nutrition as a nursing mother is paramount to your baby’s growth and development. Ensure to eat healthy and consume junk foods in moderation. Remember that whatever you eat may become residues in your breast milk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I take non-alcoholic wine when breastfeeding?
You can drink non-alcoholic wine as a nursing mother but consume it in moderation.
- Why does my baby fart after I drink milk?
Some babies are intolerant to the formula in cow milk and might get affected by the allergens in cow’s milk. They may exhibit symptoms like bloating, itchy skin, rashes, constipation, or swollen face. Consult your paediatrician for proper guidance.
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