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Can mom eat honey while breastfeeding?

Can Moms Eat Honey While Breastfeeding?
The question of whether breastfeeding mothers can safely consume honey is one that often arises among new moms. The good news is that yes, mothers can eat honey while breastfeeding without posing a risk to their infants. This reassurance stems from the fact that the primary concern with honey consumption is related to infants under one year old, who are at risk for infant botulism if they consume honey directly.
Understanding the Risks
Infant botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by the ingestion of spores of the bacterium *Clostridium botulinum*, which can be found in honey. Because infants’ digestive systems are not fully developed, they are more susceptible to these spores. However, when a breastfeeding mother consumes honey, her body is capable of breaking down any potential toxins, meaning that these do not transfer into breast milk.
Benefits of Honey for Nursing Mothers
In addition to being safe, honey can offer several benefits for breastfeeding mothers. It is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, which can be particularly helpful for mothers dealing with cracked or sore nipples. Applying honey topically can aid in wound healing, making it a natural remedy for some of the discomforts associated with breastfeeding.
Nutritional Considerations
While honey does not enhance breast milk production or quality, it can be a nutritious addition to a mother’s diet. It contains natural sugars, vitamins, and minerals, which can provide a quick energy boost for new moms who often experience fatigue. However, moderation is key, as honey is high in fructose and calories.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can safely enjoy honey as part of their diet. It poses no risk to their babies and can even provide some health benefits for the mothers themselves. As always, it’s essential for mothers to maintain a balanced diet and consult with healthcare providers if they have any concerns about their nutrition while breastfeeding.

What should a breastfeeding mother avoid eating?

Caffeine. It’s not just tea and coffee that contains caffeine – it’s in chocolate, and various energy drinks and soft drinks. It’s sensible to cut caffeine out while breastfeeding because it’s a stimulant so can make your baby restless. If you do drink caffeine, try not to have more than 300mg a day.

What not to do while breastfeeding?

Don’t drink alcohol when you’re breastfeeding. Alcohol includes beer, wine, wine coolers and liquor. If you do drink alcohol, don’t have more than two drinks a week. Wait at least 2 hours after each drink before you breastfeed.

What foods should I avoid while breastfeeding a baby gassy?

If you notice that each time you eat something your baby becomes fussy, try avoiding the food for a while and see what happens. 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 does honey affect a newborn baby?

Infant botulism is a rare but serious form of food poisoning that can affect babies up to a year old. In Canada, honey is the only food that has been linked to infant botulism. You can help reduce the risk of this disease by only feeding honey to healthy children over one year of age.

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.)

What to drink to increase breast milk?

Drinks to increase nutrients in breast milk

  • Water. Plain water tops the list because not getting enough of it can directly reduce your milk supply.
  • Cow’s milk. Cow’s milk is on the list because of its nutrient density.
  • Herbal tea with fenugreek.
  • Fruit smoothie with chia seeds.
  • Coconut water.
  • Juice.

Does honey affect milk?

The quality of honey may vary and in some cases, honey may be extracted unhygienically or may be adulterated or contaminated, which when combined with milk may have harmful effects on health and digestion. Honey should not be given to infants under one year of age due to the risk of botulism.

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.

What can I drink to lose belly fat while breastfeeding?

1) Drink At Least 8 Cups Of Water Every Day
And it’s especially important for breastfeeding moms. Water helps your body naturally shed unwanted pounds because water: Contributes to regular body functions, like circulation, digestion, regulation of body temperature, transportation of nutrients, and milk production.

Can breastfeeding mothers eat honey?

Thankfully, experts say it’s safe to eat honey while breastfeeding.

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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