Which fruits not to eat during breastfeeding?

Understanding Fruit Choices During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a crucial time for both mother and baby, and nutrition plays a significant role in ensuring the health and well-being of both. While many fruits are beneficial and packed with essential vitamins, some may not be suitable for breastfeeding mothers due to potential effects on the baby. Here’s a closer look at which fruits to avoid during this important period.
Fruits to Limit or Avoid
1. Citrus Fruits: Fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are often cited as problematic for breastfeeding mothers. The acidity in citrus fruits can lead to digestive discomfort in some infants, potentially causing fussiness or diaper rash. While these fruits are rich in vitamin C, their potential to upset a baby’s stomach makes them a fruit group to approach with caution.
2. Cherries: Cherries are another fruit that may not sit well with breastfeeding infants. They can cause gas and discomfort, which might lead to increased crying or irritability in babies. If a mother notices her baby becoming fussy after consuming cherries, it may be wise to eliminate them from her diet.
3. Prunes: While prunes are known for their digestive benefits, they can also lead to gas and bloating in infants. This can be particularly concerning for breastfeeding mothers who want to maintain a calm and comfortable environment for their babies.
4. Pineapple: Although pineapple is a nutritious fruit, it is also acidic and can cause mouth irritation or digestive issues in some babies. Its strong flavor and acidity might not be well-tolerated, making it advisable for breastfeeding mothers to limit their intake.
5. Other Fruits: While not as commonly mentioned, some mothers report that fruits like strawberries and kiwi can also lead to allergic reactions or digestive issues in their babies. It’s essential for mothers to observe their babies’ reactions to various foods and adjust their diets accordingly.
General Guidelines for Fruit Consumption
While it’s important to be mindful of certain fruits, breastfeeding mothers should not feel overly restricted. A well-balanced diet rich in a variety of fruits can provide essential nutrients. Here are some tips for navigating fruit consumption during breastfeeding:
– Monitor Reactions: Every baby is different. If a mother consumes a fruit and notices her baby becoming fussy or gassy, it may be best to avoid that fruit in the future.
– Focus on Variety: Incorporating a wide range of fruits can help ensure that both mother and baby receive necessary vitamins and minerals. Opt for fruits that are generally well-tolerated, such as bananas, apples, and berries.
– Stay Hydrated: Fruits with high water content, like watermelon and cucumbers, can help keep mothers hydrated, which is crucial during breastfeeding.
Conclusion
Navigating dietary choices during breastfeeding can be challenging, especially when it comes to fruits. While some fruits like citrus, cherries, prunes, and pineapple may cause discomfort for some infants, it’s essential for mothers to listen to their bodies and their babies. By being observant and flexible, breastfeeding mothers can enjoy a nutritious diet that supports their health and that of their little ones.

Can I eat pineapple while breastfeeding?

Eating such foods can cause gas in the mother’s bowel; however, gas and fiber do not pass into breast milk. Similarly, acidic foods like citrus fruits, pineapple, and tomatoes do not affect breast milk, as these foods do not change the pH of maternal plasma10).

What should a breastfeeding mother avoid eating?

Caffeine. It’s not just tea and coffee that contains caffeine – it’s in chocolate, and various energy drinks and soft drinks. It’s sensible to cut caffeine out while breastfeeding because it’s a stimulant so can make your baby restless. If you do drink caffeine, try not to have more than 300mg a day.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

What fruits should you avoid after giving birth?

Cow’s milk-based foods: May cause the baby to develop milk protein allergies. Avoid vegetables and fruits such as cabbage, sweet bananas, strawberries, cherries, and grapes: May cause gas and abdominal discomfort for the baby.

What fruits increase breast milk?

Apricots and dates
Eating apricots and dates can increase prolactin, which is the hormone that tells your body to produce milk. Apricots contain essential nutrients such as dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C and potassium. Fresh is better than canned. If you have to go with canned, avoid apricots packed in syrups.

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.)