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Which foods cause gas in breastfed babies?

Understanding Gas in Breastfed Babies
Breastfeeding is often hailed as the best source of nutrition for infants, but many mothers find themselves grappling with an unexpected challenge: gas in their breastfed babies. This issue can lead to fussiness and discomfort, prompting mothers to question their diets and the potential impact on their little ones.
Common Culprits of Gas
While breast milk is primarily derived from what circulates in a mother’s bloodstream rather than directly from her digestive tract, certain foods consumed by breastfeeding mothers can still influence their baby’s comfort. Some mothers report that specific foods lead to increased gas in their babies, with effectsFoods That Can Cause Gas in Breastfed Babies
Certain foods in a breastfeeding mother’s diet can contribute to gas and discomfort in their breastfed babies. According to the evidence, some of the common culprits include:
– Dairy products
– Broccoli, cabbage, and other cruciferous vegetables ,,
– Beans,
– Eggs
– Garlic
– Spicy foods
– Caffeine
While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, it’s believed that these foods can affect the composition of the mother’s breastmilk, leading to increased gas production in the baby’s digestive system.,
However, it’s important to note that not all babies are sensitive to the same foods., Some babies may tolerate these foods without any issues, while others may experience significant gas and discomfort.
To identify potential problem foods, breastfeeding mothers are often advised to keep a food diary and observe any patterns between their diet and their baby’s gas and fussiness. By eliminating suspected trigger foods one at a time, they can determine which items to avoid or limit in their diet.
Overall, while certain foods may contribute to gas in breastfed babies, the evidence suggests that this is not a universal issue. Maintaining a balanced, nutritious diet and being attentive to your baby’s individual needs can help manage any gas-related discomfort.

What foods upset babies 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.

What foods make breastfed babies gassy?

Food sensitivities and gas in breastfed babies
Some moms swear that when they eat foods such as dairy products, broccoli, cabbage, bananas, eggs, or garlic, their babies are gassy and fussy for up to the next 24 hours.

Which food is best for breastfeeding mothers?

Include protein foods 2-3 times per day such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, beans, nuts and seeds. Eat three servings of vegetables, including dark green and yellow vegetables per day. Eat two servings of fruit per day. Include whole grains such as whole wheat breads, pasta, cereal and oatmeal in your daily diet.

How do I know if my breast milk is causing gas?

Common symptoms of gas in breastfed babies:
Spitting up (while typically completely normal): May be a sign of gas build up within the stomach. Trapped gas bubbles can push some breastmilk back up. Excessive flatulence (again, usually completely normal and a natural way to relieve the pressure of gas)

What should a mother eat when a baby has gas?

Some babies also may become fussy with the consumption of gas-producing foods (broccoli, cabbage, beans, etc.). If you notice this you may want to substitute other vegetables and lean proteins into your diet. Some foods may cause an allergy in an infant also, although this area needs additional research.

How do I know if my breastfed baby has a food intolerance?

Even a baby who has never been formula fed, and has never had any food besides breast milk may show signs of food allergy including: diarrhea, bloody stools, vomiting, colic, eczema, constipation and poor growth. Babies can develop allergies to foods that you are eating while you are breastfeeding.

What is the best position to breastfeed to avoid gas?

Use positions for feeding that keep baby’s head higher than her tummy, such as a laid-back position or having baby diagonally across your chest in a cradle hold. Avoid positions that have baby bending at the waist, putting more pressure on her tummy.

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 foods should breastfeeding mothers eat to prevent colic?

Vegetables

  • Avocado.
  • Beets.
  • Sprouts.
  • Celery.
  • Corn.
  • Carrots.
  • Pumpkin.
  • Sweet Potato.

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.

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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