Is it OK to eat MSG while breastfeeding?

Understanding MSG and Breastfeeding
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavor enhancer commonly used in various cuisines, particularly in Asian dishes. As new mothers navigate the complexities of breastfeeding, questions about dietary choices, including the consumption of MSG, often arise. The good news is that current research and expert opinions suggest that consuming MSG while breastfeeding is generally considered safe.
Safety of MSG Consumption
According to scientific reviews and regulatory assessments, MSG is deemed safe for the general population, including children and pregnant women. This consensus extends to breastfeeding mothers as well. The safety of MSG has been affirmed by various health organizations worldwide, which have concluded that typical dietary amounts do not pose a risk to either the mother or the infant.
Dietary Recommendations for Breastfeeding Mothers
When it comes to dietary restrictions during breastfeeding, experts emphasize that there are no specific foods that mothers must avoid solely because they are breastfeeding. The prevailing guidance suggests that mothers can eat a wide variety of foods, including those containing MSG, as long as they do not notice any adverse reactions in their babies. This flexibility allows mothers to maintain a balanced diet without unnecessary restrictions.
Considerations for Individual Sensitivities
While MSG is generally safe, some individuals may experience sensitivity to it, leading to symptoms such as headaches or gastrointestinal discomfort. If a breastfeeding mother notices that her baby seems fussy or has digestive issues after she consumes foods with MSG, it may be worth considering a temporary reduction in intake to observe any changes. However, such reactions are rare, and most mothers can enjoy foods with MSG without concern.
Conclusion
In summary, consuming MSG while breastfeeding is considered safe based on current scientific understanding. Mothers are encouraged to maintain a varied diet that includes their favorite foods, including those with MSG, unless they observe specific sensitivities. As always, if there are any concerns about dietary choices or their effects on breastfeeding, consulting with a healthcare provider can provide personalized guidance and reassurance.

Is MSG bad for hormones?

There are many reports that highlighted the negative role of MSG on the production and secretion of folliclestimulating hormone (FSH) and LH; these hormones are critical for the maturation of reproductive organs and the production of male and female gametes.

What foods should be avoided while breastfeeding?

What not to eat and drink when breastfeeding

• 1 mug of filter coffee = 140mg.
• 1 mug of instant coffee = 100mg.
• 1 mug of tea = 75mg.
• 1 (250ml) can of energy drink = 80mg (larger cans may contain up to 160mg caffeine)
• 1 (354mls) cola drink = 40mg.
• 1 (50g) plain chocolate bar = up to 50mg.

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.

How much MSG is in breast milk?

The most abundant amino acid in breast milk has 0.02% of glutamate, so a 5kg baby who takes 800 ml of breast milk a day, consumes 0.16g of glutamate. “The amount of glutamate consumed by babies that only breastfeed is equivalent to the MSG of Korea or Taiwan,” the researcher concludes.

Who Cannot eat MSG?

While most people can eat a meal with MSG without issue, a small subset — less than 1% of the general population — may be particularly sensitive to MSG. Symptoms typically appear in the first two hours after consuming foods with MSG, and can include headache, skin flushing, sweating, nausea, numbness, and fatigue.

What foods decrease breast milk supply?

Which Foods Might Decrease Your Breast Milk Supply?

• Alcohol.
• Sage, Parsley, and Peppermint.
• Chasteberry.
• Pseudoephedrine, Methylergonovine, and Bromocriptine.

Can MSG pass through the placenta?

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) was shown to penetrate placental barrier and to distribute to embryonic tissues using [3H]glutamic acid ([3H]Glu) as a tracer.

What foods are not good for breast milk?

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.) Peppermint or spearmint: (food, gum or candy with mint flavor) Sage: (sausage, dressing, wild rice mix, etc)

Can MSG harm my unborn baby?

The bottom line. During pregnancy, eating right-sized portions of foods with MSG isn’t likely to land you with a slew of unpleasant symptoms — and it won’t harm your growing baby, either. You can feel free to enjoy umami-flavored veggies, nuts, broths (and, yes, even the occasional Chinese takeout) without concern.

Can a breastfeeding mother eat MSG?

MSG is also safe for breastfeeding moms.