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Is coke allowed for breastfeeding mom?

Is Coke Allowed for Breastfeeding Moms?
The question of whether breastfeeding mothers can consume Coke, or other soft drinks, is a common concern among new parents. While the focus often shifts to the effects of drugs and alcohol on breastfeeding, the implications of caffeine and sugar in soft drinks like Coke also warrant attention.
Caffeine Considerations
Coke contains caffeine, a stimulant that can pass into breast milk. According to health experts, moderate caffeine consumption is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that up to 300 mg of caffeine per day—equivalent to about three 12-ounce cans of Coke—is unlikely to harm a breastfeeding infant. However, it’s important to note that individual tolerance to caffeine can vary, and some infants may be more sensitive to it than others.
Sugar and Other Ingredients
In addition to caffeine, Coke is high in sugar and contains various additives. While sugar itself is not harmful in moderation, excessive consumption can lead to health issues for both the mother and the child, such as obesity and dental problems. Therefore, while enjoying a Coke occasionally is generally acceptable, moderation is key.
Hydration and Nutrition
Breastfeeding mothers should prioritize hydration and nutrition. Water is the best choice for staying hydrated, and while a Coke can be a refreshing treat, it shouldn’t replace healthier beverage options. It’s essential for mothers to maintain a balanced diet to support both their health and milk production.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can enjoy Coke in moderation, keeping an eye on their overall caffeine and sugar intake. As always, if there are any concerns about diet and breastfeeding, consulting with a healthcare provider is advisable to ensure both mother and baby remain healthy.

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.

What drinks to avoid when breastfeeding?

Foods and drinks to avoid while breastfeeding
Caffeine passes into breastmilk, so large amounts of tea, coffee and cola drinks are best avoided. Drinking small amounts of drinks with caffeine (3 or less drinks a day) should not be a problem. Alcohol also passes into breastmilk and can affect your baby.

Does soda make breastfed babies gassy?

Breastmilk is made from what passes into mom’s blood, not what is in her stomach or digestive track. Below are a few common questions that moms have about breastfeeding and gassy babies. Can drinking carbonated sodas cause gas in baby? No.

What drinks dry up breast milk?

Tips for Drying Up Your Breast Milk

  • Drink one mug of sage or peppermint tea 3 or 4 times per day, for 2 to 3 days.
  • Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can help dry up your milk, but ask your doctor before using this medicine, and do not take it if you have kidney or thyroid problems, or if you have glaucoma.

Is soda bad for milk supply?

Some mothers may need more or less. It is important to listen to your body and drink when you feel thirsty. Drinking excess fluids will not help increase your milk supply. Limit caffeine to 2 cups or less per day (cut it out entirely if you have very low milk supply).

Can I drink coke when breastfeeding?

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.

Do I have to pump and dump after 2 drinks?

You do not have to pump and dump after drinking alcohol when you’re breastfeeding, except for comfort. As alcohol leaves the bloodstream, it leaves the breastmilk.

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.

How long does it take for soda to leave breast milk?

Caffeine does pass into breastmilk, however baby gets about 1.5% of the amount of caffeine that the nursing parent gets (Berlin, Denson, Daniel & Ward 1984). The half-life of caffeine is about 97.5 hours in a newborn, 14 hours in a 3-5-month-old baby and 2.6 hours in a baby older than 6 months.

How much caffeine is in coke?

34mg
People are often surprised when they learn that the amount of caffeine in Coke or Diet Coke is much less than in the same-sized coffee. Coke’s caffeine content is 34mg for a 12-oz can, and Diet Coke caffeine content is 46mg. That’s three to four times less than coffee!

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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