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What fruits cause colic in breastfed babies?

Understanding Colic in Breastfed Babies
Colic is a term that describes prolonged periods of excessive crying in otherwise healthy infants, often without an apparent cause. While the exact reasons behind colic remain somewhat of a mystery, many parents are keen to identify potential triggers, particularly in the foods consumed by breastfeeding mothers.
The Role of Maternal Diet
Research indicates that certain foods in a breastfeeding mother’s diet can influence the baby’s digestive comfort. Specifically, some fruits have been noted to potentially contribute to colic symptoms in breastfed infants. This connection arises because the substances in these foods can pass into breast milk, affecting the baby shortly after consumption.
Fruits That May Cause Colic
1. Citrus Fruits: Fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are known for their acidity. This acidity can lead to gas and discomfort in some babies, potentially exacerbating colic symptoms.
2. Berries: While generally healthy, berries such as strawberries and raspberries can sometimes cause digestive issues in sensitive infants. Their high fiber content, while beneficial for adults, may lead to gas in babies.
3. Melons: Watermelon and cantaloupe, although hydrating, can also lead to gas and bloating in some infants. The high water content may not be problematic for all babies, but for some, it can lead to discomfort.
4. Stone Fruits: Fruits like peaches, plums, and cherries are delicious but can be gassy. Their natural sugars and fiber may contribute to digestive upset in sensitive infants.
5. Dried Fruits: Items such as raisins and prunes are concentrated sources of sugar and fiber, which can lead to gas and bloating, potentially triggering colic symptoms.
General Dietary Recommendations
To mitigate the risk of colic, breastfeeding mothers are often advised to monitor their diets closely. It may be beneficial to keep a food diary to identify any correlations between what is consumed and the baby’s crying patterns. If certain fruits seem to coincide with increased colic symptoms, it may be wise to eliminate them from the diet temporarily.
Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet rich in water, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is recommended. This approach not only supports the mother’s health but also promotes a more comfortable digestive environment for the baby.
Conclusion
While colic can be distressing for both infants and parents, understanding the potential impact of a breastfeeding mother’s diet can help in managing symptoms. By being mindful of certain fruits and their effects, mothers can take proactive steps to create a more soothing environment for their little ones. As always, consulting with a healthcare provider for personalized advice is a prudent approach for any breastfeeding mother concerned about colic.

Which fruits can cause gas in breastfed babies?

Foods That Make Breastfed Babies Gassy

  • Fiber. Foods like bran, beans, and whole grains.
  • Fruit. Citrus fruits, prunes, plums, peaches, or apricots.
  • Vegetables. Broccoli, cabbage, and Brussel sprouts.
  • Garlic. Garlic-seasoned foods like pasta dishes or garlic bread.
  • Dairy.
  • Carbonated beverages.

Which fruits should I avoid while breastfeeding?

You may have heard that it helps to avoid certain foods while breastfeeding – such as citrus fruits, orange juice, spices (cinnamon, curry, chili pepper), spicy food, and “gassy” veggies (cabbage, onion, broccoli, cauliflower) – but there’s no convincing scientific evidence to support that advice.

What foods should breastfeeding mothers eat to prevent colic?

It is most important to consume a diet with plenty of water and an adequate consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and low-fat dairy sources.

What makes a breastfed baby colic?

Maternal diet – certain foods in the mother’s diet may cause symptoms of food allergy or intolerance in her breastfed baby. Some studies have found that particular foods eaten by the motherincluding cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, chocolate, onions and cow’s milkcan cause an attack of colic in her breastfed infant.

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 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.

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.

What fruits are anti-colic?

There are also some foods that will encourage a healthy gut and can help prevent symptoms of colic. These include apples, pears, asparagus, carrot, celery, kale, corn, bananas, papaya, celery, beetroot, pumpkin, zucchini, mushrooms, teas (chamomile, dandelion, fennel and cardamom), bone broths and apple cider vinegar.

Does avocado cause gas in babies?

They may have skin rashes, gas, or an upset stomach up to 48 hours after eating even a small amount of avocado. Avoid giving avocado to such kids and seek medical help if the rashes are too severe or the baby appears uncomfortable.

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.

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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