5 Most Common Foods To Avoid During Breastfeeding
It's a long list of don'ts.
21 June 2017
If you thought that giving birth has freed you from the ‘no sushi, no alcohol zone’ then you’ve got it all wrong.
Pregnancy is just the face of parenthood — a lifestyle that comes with a whole new set of rules to live by, especially for mothers who plan to breastfeed their newborn babies.
The sacrifices of motherhood begin by giving up (or at least reducing) the things you crave. From obvious junk foods to some healthy options, here’s a quick list of foods that you won’t be enjoying much during breastfeeding.
1. Fish
Fish, of all types, contain some traces of mercury pollutants that aren't healthy. But the health benefits of eating fish — high protein, low fat — outweigh the risk.
However, there are the old predator types including shark, swordfish, tilefish and king mackerel with high levels of mercury that can affect your baby's brain. Better stay away from these and feast on chicken on veggies instead.
2. Nuts
Nut allergies are common among children and if it runs in your family, there's a high chance that your child won't takes kindly to you snacking on those roasted peanuts.
It's always better to get the tests done before you dive into the peanut butter jar.
3. Spicy foods
While a little bit of spice in your food won't cause any harm, it's those eye burning chillies and jalapenos that will cause problems for your baby.
Doctors strongly suggest that you eliminate excessive salt, sugar and spice from your meal during breastfeeding. (Something that we should be doing anyway).
4. Alcohol
Alcohol doesn't really enjoy a good reputation in the healthy food department so this one is a no-brainer.
While a glass or two of wine is acceptable, anything more than that will get into your breast milk and can negatively affect your child.
5. Peppermint
This one is tricky. Peppermint is usually considered a refreshing addition to cocktails, foods and herbal teas but high doses of peppermint is known to inhibit milk production.
This herb is actually used by mums who are ready to stop breastfeeding and want to dry up their milk supply.
