What drinks can I drink while breastfeeding?

Understanding What Drinks Are Safe While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a crucial time for both mother and baby, and what a mother consumes can significantly impact her milk and, consequently, her infant. When it comes to beverages, there are several considerations to keep in mind, particularly regarding alcohol, caffeine, and hydration.
Alcohol: A Cautious Approach
Alcohol and breastfeeding don’t mix well. Experts generally recommend that breastfeeding mothers either abstain from alcohol entirely or limit their consumption significantly. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that not drinking alcohol is the safest option for breastfeeding mothers and their infants. If a mother chooses to drink, it is advised to wait at least two hours after consuming one standard drink before nursing again. This waiting period increases to four to five hours after two drinks. Importantly, the practice of “pumping and dumping”—discarding breast milk after drinking—has been deemed unnecessary, as alcohol levels in breast milk will decrease as the mother metabolizes the alcohol.
Caffeine: Moderation is Key
Caffeine is another common concern for breastfeeding mothers. While moderate caffeine consumption is generally considered safe, it is advisable to limit intake to about 300 mg per day, roughly equivalent to three cups of coffee. Caffeine can pass into breast milk, and excessive amounts may lead to irritability or sleep disturbances in infants. Therefore, mothers should monitor their caffeine sources, which can include coffee, tea, soft drinks, and even chocolate.
Hydration: Essential for Milk Production
Staying hydrated is vital for breastfeeding mothers. Water should be the primary beverage of choice, as it supports overall health and milk production. Other good options include lower-fat milk and sugar-free drinks, which can provide additional nutrients without excessive calories. Herbal teas can also be a soothing choice, but mothers should ensure that the herbs are safe for breastfeeding.
Drinks to Avoid
In addition to alcohol and excessive caffeine, certain drinks should be approached with caution. Sugary beverages and those high in artificial sweeteners may not be the best choices for overall health. Additionally, some mothers may find that their babies react negatively to certain foods or drinks they consume, leading to fussiness or digestive issues. If a mother suspects that a particular drink is affecting her baby, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable.
Conclusion
In summary, while breastfeeding, mothers should prioritize hydration with water and limit or avoid alcohol and caffeine. By making informed choices about their beverage consumption, mothers can support their health and their baby’s well-being during this critical time.

Can I drink Sprite during breastfeeding?

Not really, unless they’re caffeinated. (Caffeine has been reported by some moms to cause irritability and colic symptoms in their breastfed babies.) Your afternoon soda shouldn’t bother baby, but beware that fizzy drinks can make you feel bloated and full, keeping you from drinking enough fluids during the day.

What cannot you drink while breastfeeding?

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.

What is the best liquid to drink while breastfeeding?

It is helpful to drink an 8-ounce glass of water, juice, or milk at each meal and every time you feed your baby. Some people find that having something warm to drink helps them relax and triggers the letdown reflex.

Do and don’ts of breastfeeding?

Make sure you do not eat anything that causes gas or constipation in your baby’s stomach as what you eat may affect your baby’s digestion. Make sure you include all sorts of proteins and vitamins in your diet. Make a habit of drinking milk regularly. Your breast milk may slightly have the taste of the food you eat.

What can I drink besides water while breastfeeding?

drinking plenty of fluids – have a drink beside you when you settle down to breastfeed: water, lower fat milks, lower sugar or sugar-free drinks are all good choices.

Which fruit decreases breast milk?

Chasteberry. Chasteberry has been shown to act directly on the pituitary gland, inhibiting the secretion of prolactin. 11 When prolactin levels are reduced in a lactating person, milk supply typically reduces with it. As a result, breastfeeding parents may want to avoid chasteberry supplements.

What can I drink to lose belly fat while breastfeeding?

1) Drink At Least 8 Cups Of Water Every Day
And it’s especially important for breastfeeding moms. Water helps your body naturally shed unwanted pounds because water: Contributes to regular body functions, like circulation, digestion, regulation of body temperature, transportation of nutrients, and milk production.

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.

What drinks increase breast milk supply?

And caffeine-free iced or hot herbal teas can contribute to your daily fluid goal. You can also buy or make lactation tea. These herbal teas feature galactagogues like fenugreek, ginger, fennel, and other herbs thought to boost milk supply.

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.)