Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » Can a breastfeeding mom drink Diet Coke?

Can a breastfeeding mom drink Diet Coke?

Can a Breastfeeding Mom Drink Diet Coke?
The question of whether a breastfeeding mother can enjoy a Diet Coke is one that many new moms ponder, especially if they were avid soda drinkers before pregnancy. The good news is that moderate consumption of Diet Coke is generally considered safe while breastfeeding, but there are several factors to consider.
Caffeine Content
One of the primary concerns with Diet Coke is its caffeine content. A standard 12-ounce can of Diet Coke contains about 46 milligrams of caffeine. While this is significantly lower than the caffeine found in coffee, it still contributes to the overall daily caffeine intake. Health experts typically recommend that breastfeeding mothers limit their caffeine consumption to about 300 milligrams per day. This means that a few cans of Diet Coke can fit into a breastfeeding mom’s diet without exceeding the recommended limit.
Artificial Sweeteners
Diet Coke is sweetened with aspartame, an artificial sweetener that has been the subject of much debate. However, research indicates that aspartame is safe for consumption during breastfeeding. The body metabolizes aspartame into its constituent parts, which are then excreted, and studies have shown that it does not adversely affect breast milk or the nursing infant.
Hydration and Nutrition
While enjoying a Diet Coke occasionally is fine, it’s essential for breastfeeding mothers to prioritize hydration and nutrition. Water, herbal teas, and natural juices should be the primary beverages consumed to ensure adequate hydration and nutrient intake. Diet sodas can be enjoyed in moderation, but they should not replace healthier drink options.
Individual Reactions
Every baby is different, and some may be more sensitive to caffeine or other ingredients than others. If a mother notices that her baby seems more fussy or has trouble sleeping after she consumes Diet Coke, it may be wise to cut back or eliminate it from her diet. Observing the baby’s reactions can help guide dietary choices.
Conclusion
In summary, a breastfeeding mom can drink Diet Coke in moderation without significant concerns. Keeping an eye on caffeine intake and ensuring that it does not replace healthier beverage options is key. As always, if there are any specific health concerns or dietary questions, consulting with a healthcare provider or a lactation consultant can provide personalized guidance.

Can I drink diet coke when breastfeeding?

Diet soft drinks​
Drinks (as well as foods) which contain approved sweeteners such as aspartame, acesulfame potassium and sucralose are considered safe when you consume them in moderation. Read on for food tips when breastfeeding​.

Does soda affect breast milk supply?

After being studied extensively, caffeine has not been found to decrease milk supply. In fact, one study found it can actually stimulate milk production. That being said, if your baby is sensitive to caffeine and doesn’t nurse well after you consume it, be mindful of stimulating properly to maintain supply.

Is diet coke ok for pregnancy?

The intermittent soda isn’t likely to do you – or your baby – any harm. But research shows it’s not a good idea to make drinking soda a daily habit, whether you’re having regular or diet.

How long does it take for soda to leave breast milk?

Caffeine does pass into breastmilk, however baby gets about 1.5% of the amount of caffeine that the nursing parent gets (Berlin, Denson, Daniel & Ward 1984). The half-life of caffeine is about 97.5 hours in a newborn, 14 hours in a 3-5-month-old baby and 2.6 hours in a baby older than 6 months.

How long does caffeine stay in breastmilk?

However, in one study, the average half-life of caffeine in breastmilk was reached 6.1 hours after consumption. To put it simply, this means that the average breastfeeding mother (6 hours after consuming caffeine) could still have 50% of the caffeine dose remaining in her breastmilk (CM Berlin Jr., et al., 1984).

What drinks should I avoid when breastfeeding?

Foods and drinks to avoid while breastfeeding
Caffeine passes into breastmilk, so large amounts of tea, coffee and cola drinks are best avoided. Drinking small amounts of drinks with caffeine (3 or less drinks a day) should not be a problem. Alcohol also passes into breastmilk and can affect your baby.

Is it safe to drink coke while breastfeeding?

The short answer is yes, it is generally safe to drink caffeine while you are breastfeeding your baby. However, experts recommend limiting your caffeine intake to 300 milligrams of caffeine per day while nursing. Caffeine does affect some babies. Breast milk can contain small traces of the substance.

What drinks dry up breast milk?

Tips for Drying Up Your Breast Milk

  • Drink one mug of sage or peppermint tea 3 or 4 times per day, for 2 to 3 days.
  • Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can help dry up your milk, but ask your doctor before using this medicine, and do not take it if you have kidney or thyroid problems, or if you have glaucoma.

How much caffeine is in diet coke?

46mg
How much caffeine is in Diet Coke? People are often surprised when they learn that the amount of caffeine in Coke or Diet Coke is much less than in the same-sized coffee. Coke’s caffeine content is 34mg for a 12-oz can, and Diet Coke caffeine content is 46mg. That’s three to four times less than coffee!

Does aspartame get into breast milk?

Aspartame is not detectable in breastmilk after maternal ingestion because it is rapidly broken down in the mother’s body. An extremely large intake of aspartame (equivalent to 17 cans of soda or 100 packets of Equal Sweetener) can slightly increase the amount of phenylalanine in breastmilk.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

Leave a Comment