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Which fruit is best for breastfeeding?

The Best Fruits for Breastfeeding Mothers
Breastfeeding is a crucial period for both mothers and their infants, as the nutritional choices made by nursing mothers directly impact the quality of breast milk. Understanding which fruits are beneficial during this time can help mothers ensure they are providing the best possible nutrition for their babies.
Nutritional Needs During Breastfeeding
When breastfeeding, mothers are the sole source of nutrition for their infants, making it essential to consume a varied and healthful diet. Fruits play a significant role in this diet, offering vital vitamins, minerals, and fiber that support both maternal health and milk production.
Top Fruits for Nursing Mothers
1. Strawberries: These vibrant berries are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. They are rich in iron and provide a variety of vitamins, including Vitamin C, which is crucial for immune function. Their high antioxidant content can also benefit both mother and baby.
2. Citrus Fruits: Grapefruits and oranges are excellent choices for breastfeeding mothers. They are good sources of Vitamin C and other essential nutrients that can help boost the immune system and enhance the overall health of both mother and child.
3. Fiber-Rich Fruits: Fruits such as raspberries, pears, apples, and oranges are high in fiber, which is particularly beneficial for postpartum mothers. Fiber aids in digestion, helps relieve constipation—a common concern during the postpartum period—and promotes good gut health.
4. Bananas: Known for their potassium content, bananas can help maintain energy levels and are easy to digest, making them a convenient snack for busy nursing mothers.
5. Avocados: While technically a fruit, avocados are rich in healthy fats, which are important for brain development in infants. They also provide a good source of vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to a breastfeeding diet.
Considerations for Fruit Consumption
While fruits are generally healthy, some mothers may need to be cautious about certain types. For instance, some fruits can cause gas or discomfort in babies, leading mothers to monitor their own diets closely. It’s important to note that every baby is different, and what works for one may not work for another.
Conclusion
In summary, a breastfeeding mother should aim to include a variety of fruits in her diet to ensure she and her baby receive the necessary nutrients. Strawberries, citrus fruits, fiber-rich options, bananas, and avocados stand out as particularly beneficial choices. By focusing on these fruits, mothers can support their health and enhance the quality of their breast milk, ultimately benefiting their infants during this critical developmental stage.

What fruits help produce breast milk?

Apricots and dates
Eating apricots and dates can increase prolactin, which is the hormone that tells your body to produce milk.

What foods decrease breast milk?

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.)

Which fruit is best for breast?

Because berries contain antioxidants and essential vitamins, they may help reduce your risk of breast cancer. In a study that observed women with breast cancer who consumed high amounts of fruits and vegetables, findings suggested that blueberries may help slow the development and spread of breast tumors.

What fruits cause colic in babies?

Apricots, rhubarb, prunes, melons, peaches, and other fresh fruits. Cow’s milk.

Which fruits not to eat during breastfeeding?

Food Items to Avoid During Breastfeeding:

  • Chocolate.
  • Spices like cinnamon, garlic, curry, chili pepper.
  • Citrus fruits and their juices, like oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruit.
  • Strawberries.
  • Kiwifruit.
  • Pineapple.
  • The gassy veggies like onion, cabbage, garlic, cauliflower, broccoli, cucumbers, and peppers.

What fruits give breastfed babies gas?

Citrus fruits, prunes, plums, peaches, or apricots. Vegetables. Broccoli, cabbage, and Brussel sprouts. Garlic.

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.)

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 to drink to increase breastmilk?

Research Evidence: Adding fenugreek to your diet (either as a tea or supplement) has been shown to increase milk production, especially in the early days of breastfeeding. Recommendation: Enjoy a cup of herbal tea (fenugreek, nettle, or fennel) daily.

What can I eat to increase my breast milk?

Many vegetables, whole grains, and herbs are high in plant estrogens and other compounds that may increase milk supply. They’re called galactagogues. New mothers in many cultures have used these foods for centuries to optimize breastfeeding.

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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