Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » Is almond safe while breastfeeding?

Is almond safe while breastfeeding?

Is Almond Safe While Breastfeeding?
When it comes to dietary choices during breastfeeding, many mothers are understandably cautious about what they consume, as these choices can directly affect their newborns. Almonds, both in their whole form and as almond milk, have gained popularity as nutritious options. But is it safe to include them in a breastfeeding diet?
Nutritional Benefits of Almonds
Almonds are packed with essential nutrients that can be beneficial for breastfeeding mothers. They are rich in healthy fats, particularly linoleic acid, which is known to help regulate breastfeeding hormones. This can be particularly advantageous for new mothers as they navigate the challenges of lactation. Additionally, almonds contain protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and calcium, all of which contribute to overall health.
Impact on Breast Milk and Baby
The nutrients consumed by a breastfeeding mother can influence the quality of her breast milk. Consuming almonds may enhance the nutritional profile of breast milk, potentially benefiting the baby. However, it is crucial for mothers to consult with healthcare providers before making significant dietary changes, as individual health conditions and allergies can play a role in what is safe to consume.
Almond Milk Considerations
Almond milk, a popular plant-based alternative to cow’s milk, is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. It can be a good source of hydration and may provide some of the same benefits as whole almonds, especially if fortified with vitamins and minerals. However, it is important to note that almond milk should not be used as a replacement for breast milk or formula for infants under one year of age, as it may lack essential nutrients necessary for their growth and development.
Precautions and Recommendations
While almonds and almond milk can be beneficial, mothers should be mindful of potential allergies. If there is a family history of nut allergies, it may be wise to introduce almonds cautiously and observe for any adverse reactions in the baby. Soaking almonds before consumption can also enhance their digestibility and nutrient absorption.
In conclusion, almonds and almond milk can be safe and nutritious options for breastfeeding mothers, provided they are consumed mindfully and in consultation with healthcare professionals. These foods not only support the mother’s health but may also contribute positively to the quality of breast milk, benefiting the newborn.

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 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.

Can eating almonds affect breast milk?

Almonds are touted as great for breastfeeding moms because they are a good non-dairy source of calcium. (Breastfeeding moms should have 1,000 mg of calcium daily.) Your milk is high in calcium, and if you don’t get enough of it in your diet, it could negatively impact your bones and teeth.

Can babies react to nuts in breast milk?

Babies love the flavors of foods that come through in your milk. Sometimes, though, a baby may be sensitive, not allergic, to something you eat, such as dairy products like milk and cheese. Soy, eggs, wheat, corn, beef and nuts are also common causes of food sensitivity.

Should you avoid nuts when breastfeeding?

Nuts are safe to eat during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. And what’s more, enjoying a daily 30g handful can help women meet the increased nutritional needs of pregnancy and breastfeeding.

What decreases milk supply?

Other things that can also lead you to have low milk production include:

  • Smoking or drinking.
  • Some medicines and herbs.
  • Hormonal forms of birth control. This is especially true for birth control that has estrogen.
  • Nursing or pumping less often.
  • Getting sick.
  • Feeling stressed.
  • Getting pregnant again.

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 almond good for the breast?

But it’s not just about estrogen. Almonds are also a good source of vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. This is important for breast health as it can help prevent oxidative stress and inflammation, which are risk factors for breast-related issues.

What foods decrease breast milk?

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.)

Which nuts are good for breastfeeding?

Packed with healthy fats and antioxidants, nuts can give your milk a boost. Walnuts, almonds, cashews, and pistachios are all a great choice. If your milk supply is low, snack on raw or roasted nuts. Add them to cookies, smoothies, and salads, or enjoy them between meals.

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.

Leave a Comment