What is safe for upset stomach while breastfeeding?

Understanding Upset Stomach While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often face the challenge of managing their own health issues while ensuring their baby’s well-being. An upset stomach can be particularly concerning, as it raises questions about what is safe to consume without affecting the infant.
Dietary Considerations
When dealing with an upset stomach, diet plays a crucial role. It’s essential for breastfeeding mothers to be mindful of the foods they eat, as certain items can cause discomfort for both mother and baby. Foods that are typically gentle on the stomach include bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast—often referred to as the BRAT diet. These foods are bland and can help firm up stools, making them a safe choice during digestive distress.
Additionally, staying hydrated is vital. Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, can help alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach. Herbal teas, such as chamomile, are also recommended for their soothing properties. Chamomile tea is known to relieve cramping and inflammation, making it a gentle option for mothers experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort.
Medications and Remedies
In terms of medications, some over-the-counter options may be safe for breastfeeding mothers. For instance, loperamide can be taken for diarrhea, but it should only be used for a short duration. However, caution is advised with other medications. For example, products containing bismuth subsalicylate, like Pepto Bismol, are generally not recommended during breastfeeding.
Natural remedies can also be effective. Ginger, known for its anti-nausea properties, can be consumed in various forms, such as ginger tea or ginger ale (preferably made with real ginger). This can help soothe an upset stomach without posing risks to the breastfeeding infant.
Foods and Drinks to Avoid
While some foods can help, others should be avoided. Spicy foods, caffeine, and dairy products may exacerbate stomach issues and could potentially lead to discomfort for the baby. It’s also wise to limit high-fat and fried foods, as they can be harder to digest and may contribute to gastrointestinal distress.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers experiencing an upset stomach should focus on a gentle diet, stay hydrated, and consider safe over-the-counter medications when necessary. Natural remedies like chamomile and ginger can provide relief without compromising the health of the breastfeeding infant. By being mindful of dietary choices and potential medications, mothers can navigate this uncomfortable situation while continuing to support their baby’s health.

Is Pepto-Bismol safe for breastfeeding?

Do not take Pepto-Bismol if you’re breastfeeding. If you do need a medicine, speak to you doctor or pharmacist who will be able to advise on other options that are more suitable.

What can I take for a stomach bug while breastfeeding?

Some people are prescribed (or buy) prochlorperazine (Buccastem ®, Stemetil ®) tablets to relieve the nausea and vomiting, loperamide (Imodium®) to reduce the symptoms of diarrhoea and rehydrating sachets (Dioralyte ®) to prevent dehydration. These drugs are suitable to take and carry on breastfeeding as normal.

Will my upset stomach affect my baby while breastfeeding?

A nursing mother with diarrhea caused by food or water sources can continue to breastfeed her child. However, she should also increase her own fluid intake to prevent dehydration (loss of too much water in the body). The organisms that cause travelers’ diarrhea do not pass through breast milk.

What can I take if I’m sick while breastfeeding?

Only a miniscule amount of ibuprofen or acetaminophen transfers to breastmilk, making these meds first-choice options for fever and headache while breastfeeding.

Can I take Tums while breastfeeding?

Drug Levels and Effects
In addition, oral absorption of aluminum and magnesium is poor. Because of these factors, reviewers generally consider antacid use during breastfeeding to be acceptable. [1-3] No special precautions are required.

What settles an upset stomach milk?

Therefore, it was formerly believed that milk would help ease the acidity of an upset stomach. It does for a few hours, by coating the stomach lining and acting as a buffer against excess acid. However, it then stimulates the stomach to produce more gastric acid, actually making the problem worse.

What is the quickest way to get rid of a stomach bug baby?

You can treat stomach bugs at home by making sure your child keeps drinking fluids and gets plenty of rest. The best way to keep your child well hydrated is with an electrolyte-containing solution such as Pedialyte®. Have your child take small sips frequently — meaning every five minutes or so — throughout the day.

What can I take for nausea and vomiting while breastfeeding?

Treating nausea during breastfeeding

• Cyclizine.
• Hyoscine hydrobromide.
• Metoclopramide.
• Ondansetron.
• Prochlorperazine.
• Promethazine.

What can I take for an upset stomach while breastfeeding?

Heartburn / Indigestion

• Mylanta.
• TUMS.
• Pepcid.
• Maalox.
• Gavison.
• Pepto Bismol.

What can I take for nausea while breastfeeding?

Treating nausea during breastfeeding

• Cyclizine.
• Hyoscine hydrobromide.
• Metoclopramide.
• Ondansetron.
• Prochlorperazine.
• Promethazine.