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Can I eat curry when breastfeeding?

Can I Eat Curry When Breastfeeding?
The question of whether it’s safe to eat curry while breastfeeding is one that many new mothers ponder. The good news is that it is generally safe to enjoy curry and other spicy foods during this time. In fact, consuming a variety of flavors can even have potential benefits for both mother and baby.
The Impact of Spicy Foods on Breast Milk
Research indicates that when breastfeeding mothers consume spicy foods, such as those found in curry dishes, certain compounds can be detected in their breast milk. For instance, piperine, a chemical responsible for the heat in black pepper, is one such compound that can transfer into breast milk shortly after consumption. This means that the flavors and spices you enjoy can influence the taste of your milk, potentially introducing your baby to a wider range of flavors early on.
Benefits of Eating Curry
Eating curry while breastfeeding may not only be safe but could also be beneficial. Studies suggest that exposing infants to different flavors through breast milk can help them develop a more varied palate as they grow. This exposure might make them more accepting of diverse foods later in life. Additionally, some spices commonly found in curry, like cumin, are believed to promote milk production, which can be advantageous for breastfeeding mothers.
Considerations for Mothers
While most babies tolerate spicy foods well, it’s important to monitor your baby’s reactions. If your little one seems unusually fussy or irritable after you’ve eaten a particularly spicy meal, it might be worth trying a milder diet for a short period to see if that helps. However, for the majority of mothers and babies, enjoying a flavorful curry is perfectly acceptable.
Conclusion
In summary, you can confidently enjoy curry while breastfeeding. Not only is it safe, but it may also enrich your baby’s experience with flavors. As with any dietary choice during breastfeeding, listening to your body and your baby’s cues is key. So go ahead, savor that curry, and relish the culinary adventure!

Can Indian food upset breastfed baby?

The spices can upset your baby’s stomach and tends to change the way your breastmilk smells and tastes, which could lead to a refusal to eat altogether. The main spicy foods to avoid whilte breastfeeding are garlic, curry, chili pepper, and cinnamon as these are known to cause higher levels of indigestion.

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.

Can you eat curry chicken while breastfeeding?

Spicy foods including hot peppers, garlic and curries may be wise to limit or avoid while nursing. While you might be able to handle the heat, these foods can sometimes give your baby an upset tummy—or change the flavor of your milk and lead to difficulty latching.

Can eating spicy food affect breast milk?

Not only is spicy food safe to eat while breastfeeding, but you don’t have to worry about adding some heat to your favorite foods, says Dr. Meir.

What Indian foods should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Peppermint, parsley and sage can curb your milk production therefore it is better to avoid such food while breastfeeding. Too much spicy foods can make your baby gassy, therefore, it is better to cut back on the spice. Tea can make it difficult for your baby to absorb iron. Avoid alcohol, coffee, carbonated drinks.

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)

What foods can’t you eat when breastfeeding?

Foods to stay away from when breastfeeding include:

  • Coffee and tea. Some of the caffeine in the coffee and tea you drink will end up in your breast milk and may make it harder for your baby to sleep.
  • Cabbage, broccoli, and other “gassy” foods.
  • Fish.
  • Chocolate.
  • Garlic.
  • Peppermint, sage, and parsley.

Does curry transfer to breast milk?

It’s fine to eat spicy or hot food while pregnant or breastfeeding. Though a tiny fraction of what you ingest does go into your milk supply, it’s unlikely that eating spicy food will affect your baby.

Does curry help milk production?

2. Curry leaves: rich in various minerals, curry leaves help lactating women boost the production of breast milk. Add on, curry leaves are also believed to improve blood circulation and the ability of the body to break nutrients down.

Can spicy food trigger birth?

But these claims about food-inducing labor are more old wives’ tales than proven fact. In some cases, there may be a kernel of science. For instance, spicy food can irritate the gut, which may cause uterine contractions. But there’s no evidence that will send you straight to the labor and delivery ward.

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.

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