Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » What hot drinks are good for breastfeeding?

What hot drinks are good for breastfeeding?

The Best Hot Drinks for Breastfeeding Mothers
Breastfeeding is a beautiful yet demanding journey, and maintaining proper hydration and nutrition is crucial for nursing mothers. While water remains the gold standard for hydration, many mothers seek comforting hot drinks that can also support their breastfeeding experience. Here’s a closer look at some of the best hot beverages for breastfeeding moms.
Herbal Teas: A Soothing Choice
Herbal teas can be a delightful addition to a breastfeeding mother’s diet. Certain herbal teas, such as fenugreek and fennel, are often touted for their potential to enhance milk production. Fenugreek, in particular, has been used traditionally to boost lactation, although scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited. Other herbal options like chamomile and ginger tea can provide soothing effects and help with digestion, which is beneficial for both mother and baby.
However, it’s essential to choose herbal teas wisely. Some herbs, like sage and peppermint, may reduce milk supply, so moderation is key. Always consult with a healthcare provider before introducing new herbal teas into your routine.
Warm Milk: A Classic Comfort
Warm milk is another excellent choice for breastfeeding mothers. It’s not only comforting but also packed with nutrients like calcium and protein, which are vital for both the mother’s and baby’s health. Additionally, warm milk can promote relaxation, making it a perfect drink to enjoy during late-night feedings or after a long day.
For those who are lactose intolerant or prefer plant-based options, oat milk can be a suitable alternative. While there’s no definitive evidence that oat milk directly increases milk supply, it’s a nutritious choice that can be enjoyed warm.
Broths and Soups: Nourishing and Hydrating
Broths and soups are often overlooked but can be incredibly beneficial for breastfeeding mothers. They provide hydration and essential nutrients, especially if they are made with wholesome ingredients like vegetables, lean meats, and herbs. Bone broth, in particular, is rich in minerals and can support overall health and recovery postpartum.
Warm soups can also be comforting and help replenish energy levels, making them an ideal choice during the demanding early days of motherhood.
Avoiding Certain Drinks
While many hot drinks can be beneficial, breastfeeding mothers should be cautious about certain beverages. Caffeinated drinks, such as coffee and black tea, should be consumed in moderation. High caffeine intake can lead to irritability in infants and may affect sleep patterns. It’s generally recommended to limit caffeine to about 300 mg per day, which is roughly equivalent to two to three cups of coffee.
Additionally, alcohol should be avoided or consumed very sparingly, as it can pass into breast milk and affect the baby. If a mother chooses to drink alcohol, it’s advisable to wait at least two hours per drink before breastfeeding.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers have a variety of delicious and nourishing hot drink options to choose from. Herbal teas, warm milk, and broths can provide comfort and hydration while supporting lactation. However, it’s essential to be mindful of caffeine and alcohol consumption. By making informed choices, breastfeeding mothers can enjoy their beverages while ensuring the health and well-being of both themselves and their babies.

What hot drinks can I drink while breastfeeding?

You may still drink coffee or tea when breastfeeding. ​However, keep to 2 cups of either coffee or tea per day.

What can I drink instead of coffee while breastfeeding?

Here are some caffeine substitutes for a breastfeeding mother: Teeccino is a popular coffee and tea substitute brand that specializes in carefully choosing ingredients that will benefit baby and mother. They offer gluten free options such as Dandelion Caramel Nut “Coffee” or Dandelion Red Chai Tea.

What drinks are good for breast milk supply?

Plain water, cow’s milk, herbal tea, smoothies, coconut water, and juice are good drink options during lactation. If you’re worried about your milk supply, speak with your obstetrician. You could also consider working with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant.

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.

What is the best drink for postpartum?

Carbohydrates are our primary energy source and choose whole grains when possible. B-vitamins provide energy and whole grains are a good source of fiber. Water is the best fluid to drink. Diluted juice (1/4 cup juice, 3/4 cup water) is also a good option.

Does Gatorade help milk supply?

There’s really nothing inherently milk-promoting in a sports drink like Gatorade. But the Gatorade may be fulfilling a need that is not being met in other ways. In this case, if a mom sees increased production with a sports drink, it typically means she wasn’t getting enough fluids or electrolytes in her diet.

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 hot teas should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Some types of tea can affect breastmilk production and cause side effects in the baby. Teas that should be avoided include lemongrass, oregano, parsley, peppermint, ginseng, kava andillicium verum. They should be avoided whenever possible, or consumed only under the supervision of a doctor.

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.

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.

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