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Do brussel sprouts make breastfed babies gassy?

Understanding the Impact of Brussels Sprouts on Breastfed Babies
Brussels sprouts, a cruciferous vegetable known for their nutritional benefits, have sparked curiosity among new parents regarding their potential effects on breastfed infants. One common concern is whether consuming these hearty greens can lead to increased gas in babies.
Nutritional Profile of Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are rich in essential vitamins, particularly vitamin K and vitamin C, and boast a high fiber content. They also contain compounds such as glucosinolates, which contribute to their characteristic flavor and aroma. While these elements are beneficial for adults, their effects on breastfeeding mothers and their infants deserve careful consideration.
The Link Between Maternal Diet and Infant Digestion
When breastfeeding, a mother’s diet can influence her baby’sThe Impact of Brussels Sprouts on Breastfed Babies
When it comes to the relationship between brussels sprouts and breastfed babies, the topic has long been a source of debate and discussion among new parents. According to leading pediatric experts, the answer is not a simple yes or no, but rather a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between a mother’s diet and its effects on her breastfed infant.
The Science Behind the Claim
Brussels sprouts, like many other cruciferous vegetables, contain compounds known as glucosinolates. These compounds can be broken down by the mother’s digestive system and then passed on to the breastfed baby through the breast milk. For some infants, these compounds may cause increased gas production, leading to discomfort and fussiness.
Factors to Consider
However, the impact of brussels sprouts on a breastfed baby’s gas production can vary greatly depending on several factors, including:
– Individual Sensitivity: Not all babies are equally sensitive to the compounds found in brussels sprouts. Some infants may experience minimal or no discomfort, while others may be more sensitive.
– Quantity Consumed: The amount of brussels sprouts consumed by the mother can play a significant role. Moderate consumption is less likely to cause issues compared to larger, more frequent servings.
– Preparation Method: How the brussels sprouts are prepared, such as roasting or steaming, can also influence the concentration of the compounds that are passed on to the baby.
– Other Dietary Factors: The mother’s overall diet, including the consumption of other gas-producing foods, can also contribute to the baby’s discomfort.
Recommendations for Mothers
While the research on this topic is ongoing, most pediatric experts suggest that breastfeeding mothers can still enjoy brussels sprouts in moderation, paying close attention to their baby’s reaction. If a baby seems particularly distressed after the mother has consumed brussels sprouts, it may be worth experimenting with avoiding the vegetable for a period to see if the discomfort subsides.
Ultimately, the relationship between brussels sprouts and breastfed babies is a complex one, and mothers should work closely with their healthcare providers to find the right balance that meets the needs of both themselves and their little ones.

Can my 6 month old eat Brussels sprouts?

You can start to offer sprouts to little ones from 6 months onwards. Try making a smooth puree of sprouts mixed with potato for a first taste as it can soften the bitter taste. Try our easy-peasy brussels sprouts puree recipe! Slowly add more sprouts than potatoes so your baby can get used to the flavour gradually.

How do you make Brussels sprouts not gassy?

Tip for digestion :
Blanch Brussels sprouts in boiling, salted water for 5 minutes before cooking. This makes them easier to digest.

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 foods cause bad gas in breastfed babies?

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.

Should I avoid brussels sprouts while breastfeeding?

Won’t give them colic but a babies digestive system is not fully developed until three months old. So if breastfeeding it is best to avoid brussel sprouts, kale, broccoli, beans (even falafel) and I even avoided dairy (no milk or cheese) as it’s super hard for newborns to digest so gives them terrible gas.

What vegetables should you avoid while breastfeeding?

You need to be careful when you include them in your breastfeeding diet, as babies can show disturbed digestion, sometimes rashes too. Cruciferous vegetables like cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower, can cause gas issues and make babies uncomfortable. If your baby also reacts in the similar manner, you should avoid them.

Why can’t you eat broccoli while breastfeeding?

It’s possible for your breastfed baby to have an allergic reaction or sensitivity to something you eat or drink. Foods like beans, broccoli, cauliflower, or some dairy products can cause fussiness, gassiness, or colicky behavior in some babies.

What foods should breastfeeding mothers eat to prevent colic?

It is most important to consume a diet with plenty of water and an adequate consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and low-fat dairy sources.

How do I know if my breastmilk is upsetting my baby’s stomach?

If symptoms occur such as fussiness, irritability, crying, gas, increased spitting up and/or drawing their legs up due to tummy pain, write down everything you ate that day. This lets you carefully look at your diet instead of getting rid of foods that may not be the cause of your baby’s distress.

Do brussels sprouts cause gas in babies?

Spinach, kale, broccoli, brussels sprouts, and lettuce are foods that are very likely to lead to gas in a breastfed baby. You may need to cut back on leafy greens or other veggies to determine if these foods are causing gas for your little one. Either way, infant gas is more than usual and will pass before you know it.

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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