How long does chocolate affect breastmilk?

The Impact of Chocolate on Breastmilk
For many breastfeeding mothers, the question of whether to indulge in chocolate is a common concern. Chocolate, beloved for its rich flavor and mood-enhancing properties, contains compounds that can affect both the mother and her breastmilk. Understanding how long these effects last and their implications for breastfeeding is essential for new moms navigating their dietary choices.
Key Compounds in Chocolate
Chocolate contains two primary stimulants: caffeine and theobromine. While caffeine is well-known for its stimulating effects, theobromine, which is present in larger quantities, has a similar but milder impact on the body. Both substances can pass into breastmilk, albeit in small amounts. For instance, studies indicate that if a mother consumes a significant amount of chocolate, the concentration of theobromine in her milk peaks approximately one to two hours after ingestion.
Duration of Effects in Breastmilk
The duration of chocolate’s effects on breastmilk can vary based on several factors, including the type and amount of chocolate consumed. Research shows that after a mother eats chocolate, the compounds can remain detectable in her breastmilk for several hours. Specifically, one study noted that after consuming chocolate, the mothers excreted a very small percentage of epicatechin (a flavanol found in chocolate) and its metabolites into their milk over a 12-hour period. This suggests that while the immediate effects may peak shortly after consumption, traces of these compounds can linger in breastmilk for a longer duration.
Potential Effects on Infants
Concerns often arise regarding whether chocolate consumption can lead to irritability or fussiness in infants. However, recent discussions among lactation experts suggest that these fears may be overstated. While it is true that caffeine and theobromine can affect babies, the amounts transferred through breastmilk are generally low. For example, if a mother consumes a 4-ounce chocolate bar every six hours, her baby might ingest about 10 mg of theobromine per day, which is considered a safe level. Moreover, some studies even suggest that certain types of dark chocolate may help increase milk production due to their antioxidant content, which can stimulate prolactin, the hormone responsible for lactation.
Conclusion
In summary, chocolate can be enjoyed by breastfeeding mothers, but moderation is key. The effects of chocolate on breastmilk are relatively short-lived, with peak concentrations occurring within a couple of hours after consumption. While the compounds in chocolate can pass into breastmilk, the amounts are typically low enough not to cause significant issues for most infants. As always, mothers should observe their babies’ reactions and consult healthcare providers if they have specific concerns about their diet while breastfeeding.

Will chocolate keep my breastfed baby awake?

Chocolate contains theobromine. Because theobromine is a stimulant, it could, in theory, cause the breastfed infant to be wakeful and fussy. If indeed the chocolate does contain caffeine, there’s a double whammy.

How long after eating dairy does it show up in breast milk?

One study suggests that cow’s milk peptides are no longer detectable in breastmilk just 6 hours after a mother ingests dairy products (12), but it is likely that there is considerable variability between lactating parents.

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.

How long does something stay in your breast milk?

It typically takes 2-8 hours for breast milk to be clear of food allergens after ingestion. Ingested food allergens do not always make their way to breast milk.

How do I know if dairy is bothering my breastfed baby?

Lactose intolerance is a non-immune sensitivity to the lactose, or sugar, found in milk. Lactose intolerance causes symptoms like fussiness, gas, blood or mucus in stool, nausea, spit up and diarrhea.

What foods keep babies awake while breastfeeding?

Caffeine is a stimulant, so if you have a lot, it may make your baby restless and keep them awake. Caffeine occurs naturally in lots of foods and drinks, including coffee, tea and chocolate. It’s also added to some soft drinks and energy drinks, as well as some cold and flu remedies.

How long after eating chocolate will baby move?

Unborn babies can respond by moving about 20 minutes or so after their mothers eat or drink certain foods. This can occur after having something very sweet or sugary (such as chocolate, a fizzy drink, ice cream or cake) or after having something that has a stimulant in it, such as caffeine in cola and coffee drinks.

Does chocolate cause gas in breastfed babies?

If your breastfed baby doesn’t seem bothered by gas, there’s no need to adjust your diet. Usually, breastfeeding moms can eat a wide range of foods without problems. Foods to avoid when you’re breastfeeding (or limit) typically include high-mercury fish, some herbs, alcohol, caffeine, and chocolate.

How long does chocolate affect breast milk?

If your baby’s symptoms are related to you eating chocolate, they should be resolved within 3 to 7 days. So, go ahead and enjoy chocolate – in moderation! For more information about caffeine and breastfeeding see Caffeine and Breastfeeding. Please consider supporting LLLC.

What happens if you accidentally eat dairy 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.