Can curry affect breastmilk?

The Impact of Curry on Breastmilk: A Closer Look
Curry, a staple in many cuisines, particularly Indian, is often a topic of concern for breastfeeding mothers. The question arises: Can consuming curry affect breastmilk and, consequently, the nursing infant? The answer is nuanced, involving both the composition of curry and the individual responses of mothers and their babies.
What Happens When Mothers Eat Curry?
Research indicates that certain compounds found in curry can indeed make their way into breastmilk. For instance, piperine, a chemical responsible for the pungency of black pepper, has been shown to be present in breastmilk shortly after consumption of curry dishes containing it. This suggests that flavors and potentially some active ingredients in the food can influence the composition of breastmilk.
However, not all components of curry have the same effect. Studies have shown that pungent compounds from ingredients like ginger or chili, as well as curcumin (the active ingredient in turmeric), do not significantly enter breastmilk. This means that while some flavors may be transferred, others may not, leading to a varied experience for breastfeeding infants.
Infant Reactions to Maternal Diet
The reactions of infants to their mothers’ diets can vary widely. Some mothers report noticeable changes in their babies after consuming spicy foods, including curry. For example, there are anecdotal accounts of infants becoming fussy or experiencing digestive discomfort after their mothers eat Indian food. This variability can be attributed to individual sensitivities; some babies may be more reactive to certain flavors or spices than others.
Nutritional Considerations
From a nutritional standpoint, curry can be beneficial for breastfeeding mothers. Many curry dishes are rich in essential nutrients, including proteins, vitamins, and minerals. The diversity of flavors introduced through a mother’s diet can also help in developing a baby’s palate, potentially making them more accepting of various foods as they grow.
However, some experts recommend moderation. While spicy foods, including curries, are generally safe to consume while breastfeeding, it may be wise for mothers to observe their babies’ reactions and adjust their diets accordingly. If a mother notices that her baby seems particularly unsettled after she eats spicy food, it might be prudent to limit such dishes.
Conclusion
In summary, while curry can affect breastmilk composition by introducing certain flavors and compounds, the impact on infants can vary. Mothers should feel free to enjoy a diverse diet, including curry, but should remain attentive to their babies’ responses. Ultimately, the key lies in balance and observation, ensuring both mother and baby thrive during the breastfeeding journey.

Does spicy food make breastfed babies gassy?

Many mothers have reported foods such as kale, spinach, beans, onions, garlic, peppers or spicy foods cause infant gas, while many babies tolerate these foods just fine.

Can Indian food upset a breastfed baby?

Generally anything you ate throughout your pregnancy is fine during breastfeeding, the amniotic fluid can be flavored by your diet during pregnancy, so if you’re used to eating chole and rajma then the bit of flavor in the breast milk shouldn’t phase baby.

Can spicy food make breastfed baby fussy?

Many mothers are told to avoid spicy foods because these foods are thought to cause colic, gas, diarrhea, and rashes in the breastfeeding infant. However, although strong flavors such as garlic can change the smell and flavor of breast milk, this does not usually make infants fussier.

What foods decrease milk supply?

Top 5 food / drinks to avoid if you have a low milk supply:

• Carbonated beverages.
• Caffeine – coffee, black tea, green tea, etc.
• Excess Vitamin C & Vitamin B –supplements or drinks with excessive vitamin C Or B (Vitamin Water, Powerade, oranges/orange juice and citrus fruits/juice.)

Is curry ok to eat when breastfeeding?

Food Items to Avoid During Breastfeeding:
Spices like cinnamon, garlic, curry, chili pepper. Citrus fruits and their juices, like oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruit. Strawberries. Kiwifruit.

What Indian food to avoid while breastfeeding?

Cabbage and Certain Veggies
Apart from cabbage, veggies like garlic, broccoli, spinach, cauliflower, and radish are also believed to be culprits for causing gas problems. However, if you still like to consume these veggies, ensure that you eat them during the day rather than at night so the meals get digested.

Does spicy curry affect breast milk?

Yes, you can eat the spicy foods you enjoy while breastfeeding. There’s no evidence to suggest that spicy foods should be avoided for your baby’s sake, either during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

What foods are not good for breast milk?

Caffeine – coffee, black tea, green tea, etc. Excess Vitamin C & Vitamin B –supplements or drinks with excessive vitamin C Or B (Vitamin Water, Powerade, oranges/orange juice and citrus fruits/juice.) Peppermint or spearmint: (food, gum or candy with mint flavor) Sage: (sausage, dressing, wild rice mix, etc)

How long does it take for spicy food to affect breast milk?

It can take anywhere from two to six hours for strong flavors to show up in your breast milk after you eat them. If you do notice that your baby is fussy, gassy or rejects the breast after you eat spicy foods or lots of garlic, consult your pediatrician.

What foods upset babies while breastfeeding?

What not to eat and drink when breastfeeding

• 1 mug of filter coffee = 140mg.
• 1 mug of instant coffee = 100mg.
• 1 mug of tea = 75mg.
• 1 (250ml) can of energy drink = 80mg (larger cans may contain up to 160mg caffeine)
• 1 (354mls) cola drink = 40mg.
• 1 (50g) plain chocolate bar = up to 50mg.