Does cabbage cause gas in breastfed babies?

Does Cabbage Cause Gas in Breastfed Babies?
The question of whether cabbage can cause gas in breastfed babies is a topic of considerable interest among new parents. As many know, the foods consumed by breastfeeding mothers can influence their babies’ digestive comfort. Cabbage, a member of the cruciferous vegetable family, is often cited as a potential culprit for gas.
Understanding the Impact of Cabbage
Cabbage is known for its high fiber content, which can lead to gas production in both adults and infants. When a breastfeeding mother consumes cabbage, it can pass through her breast milk, potentially affecting her baby. According to various sources, cabbage is frequently listed among foods that may contribute to gas in breastfed infants. For instance, BabyCenter notes that cabbage is a high-fiber vegetable that can cause gas in both adults and babies who are eating solids. Similarly, a breastfeeding expert suggests that mothers should consider avoiding gassy foods, including cabbage, to minimize the risk of gas in their babies.
Anecdotal Evidence and Parental Concerns
Many parents have shared their experiences regarding cabbage consumption and its effects on their babies. In discussions on platforms like Reddit, some mothers have reported that after eating cabbage, their babies seemed gassier than usual, although it can be challenging to determine if the increase in gas is significant. This anecdotal evidence highlights the variability in how different babies react to the same foods consumed by their mothers.
The Scientific Perspective
From a scientific standpoint, the consensus appears to be that while certain foods, including cabbage, can lead to increased gas, the extent of this effect can vary widely among infants. A study published in the *PMC* indicates that while some breastfeeding mothers are advised to avoid gassy foods like cabbage, it is not universally necessary, as infants rarely react negatively to the foods consumed by their mothers.
Moreover, experts emphasize that gas in infants is a common issue and is not solely linked to maternal diet. Factors such as the baby’s own digestive system and the introduction of solid foods play significant roles in gas production.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while cabbage is known to potentially cause gas in breastfed babies, the actual impact can vary. Some mothers may choose to limit their intake of cabbage and other gassy foods to see if it alleviates any discomfort in their infants. However, it is essential to remember that gas is a normal part of infant development, and not all babies will react the same way to the foods their mothers eat. If concerns about gas persist, consulting a pediatrician can provide tailored advice and reassurance.

Does cabbage make babies fussy?

Anecdotally, some moms say other foods that commonly cause gas in adults, such as broccoli, cabbage, beans, cauliflower, garlic, or spicy foods, make their breastfed babies gassy or irritable. You may find that your baby’s gas improves when you eliminate a suspect food from your diet.

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.

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.

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.

Why is cabbage bad for breastfeeding?

Cabbage is a nice cup-shaped to go around the breast. It’s cold, which helps with mastitis and engorgement relief. However, it may hold a bacteria called listeria, which is not good for you or your baby.

Does cabbage give babies wind?

If you notice there are certain foods that seem to give your child a lot of flatulence, you could try to cut back on them in your child’s diet. These foods might include regular milk (which contains lactose), beans, onions, cabbage, peas, broccoli, legumes, fizzy drinks, artificial sweeteners and chewing gum.

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.

Does cabbage make breast milk gassy?

Common culprits include beans, broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts. Bloating, burping, and passing gas are normal. But if your baby is gassy or has colic, avoid these foods for a few weeks to see whether they relieve the symptoms.

Does cabbage dry up milk supply?

Watch your milk supply.
The cabbage leaves can decrease your milk supply. You might need antibiotics. This is especially true if you have a fever or flu-like symptoms. Cabbage leaves can help reduce discomfort from inflammation and engorgement, but they can’t treat a serious infection.

What vegetables should you avoid while breastfeeding?

Common culprits include beans, broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts. Bloating, burping, and passing gas are normal. But if your baby is gassy or has colic, avoid these foods for a few weeks to see whether they relieve the symptoms.