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Can I eat lo mein while breastfeeding?

Can I Eat Lo Mein While Breastfeeding?
When it comes to dietary choices during breastfeeding, many new mothers find themselves questioning what is safe and beneficial for both themselves and their babies. One common dish that often comes up in these discussions is lo mein, a popular Chinese noodle dish typically made with wheat noodles, vegetables, and a protein source, all tossed in a savory sauce.
Nutritional Considerations
Lo mein can be a nutritious option for breastfeeding mothers. The dish is generally rich in carbohydrates, which provide energy—an essential factor for new moms who may be feeling fatigued. Additionally, if you choose a lo mein that includes vegetables and lean proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu, you can enhance its nutritional profile significantly. These ingredients can contribute important vitamins, minerals, and protein to your diet, which are crucial for both your health and milk production.
Potential Concerns
While lo mein can be a healthy choice, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. First, the sodium content in many lo mein dishes can be quite high, especially if you are ordering from a restaurant. Excessive sodium intake can lead to dehydration, which is something breastfeeding mothers should be cautious about. It’s advisable to opt for lower-sodium versions or to prepare lo mein at home where you can control the ingredients.
Another aspect to consider is the presence of certain ingredients that may not agree with your baby. For instance, if your lo mein contains garlic or spicy sauces, some babies may react negatively to these flavors in breast milk. It’s a good idea to monitor your baby’s reactions after you consume such foods and adjust your diet accordingly.
Allergies and Sensitivities
If you have a family history of food allergies, it’s wise to be cautious with new foods, including lo mein. Ingredients like soy sauce (which contains soy) or certain seafood can trigger allergies in some infants. If you notice any unusual symptoms in your baby, such as rashes or gastrointestinal distress, it may be worth consulting with a healthcare provider to determine if your diet is a contributing factor.
Conclusion
In summary, you can enjoy lo mein while breastfeeding, provided you pay attention to the ingredients and your baby’s reactions. Opt for healthier versions with plenty of vegetables and lean proteins, and be mindful of sodium levels. As with any dietary choice during breastfeeding, listening to your body and your baby’s cues is key to ensuring a healthy and enjoyable eating experience.

Is it OK to eat noodles while breastfeeding?

Starchy foods are an important source of energy, certain vitamins and fibre. This includes bread, potatoes, breakfast cereals, rice, pasta and noodles. Go for wholemeal, instead of refined starchy (white) versions, as much as possible.

What foods should be avoided 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.

What foods spoil breast milk?

Here are 5 foods to limit or avoid while breastfeeding, as well as tips for how to tell if your diet is affecting your baby.

  • Fish high in mercury.
  • Some herbal supplements.
  • Alcohol.
  • Caffeine.
  • Highly processed foods.

Is soy sauce ok when breastfeeding?

So, soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, and even the beloved miso soup was a no-go while breastfeeding. From there, you should plan out your grocery shopping trips and have a detailed grocery list handy – which includes brand-names of foods. In other words, don’t just have “ranch dressing” on your list.

Why avoid strawberries while breastfeeding?

A quart or more of orange juice or a diet heavy in seasonal fruits such as strawberries, melons or cherries have been associated with diarrhea and colicky symptoms in some infants. Foods containing many preservatives, additives or dyes have been associated with signs of discomfort in some babies.

Is lo mein safe to eat during pregnancy?

Lo Mein is high in sodium and fat, and crowd-pleaser General Tso’s chicken is deep-fried. Also steer clear of orange chicken or any dish that’s topped with a thick, sweet sauce, which means loads of sugar.

What foods 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.

How unhealthy is chicken lo mein?

Worst: Lo Mein
This mound of noodles has about half the carbohydrates you need all day. The noodles are made from white flour, which raises your blood sugar faster than fiber-rich whole grains. Plus, they’re cooked with oil and soy sauce, so you get extra fat and sodium.

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)

Are lo mein noodles pre cooked?

Another point of confusion that often leads to mistakes when making lo mein is that lo mein noodles can come both pre-cooked and uncooked. Make sure you check the package carefully before you buy them to see which type you have.

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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