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Which fruits should I avoid during breastfeeding?

Understanding Dietary Choices During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a crucial period for both mothers and their infants, as the nutritional choices made by the mother can significantly impact the baby’s health and development. While a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables is generally encouraged, there are specific fruits that some experts recommend avoiding during this time.
Fruits to Approach with Caution
1. Citrus Fruits: Fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are often cited as ones to limit during breastfeeding. The acidity in these fruits can potentially lead to digestive discomfort in some infants, causing issues like gas or fussiness. While not every baby will react negatively, it’s wise for breastfeeding mothers to monitor their baby’s reactions after consuming these fruits.
2. Cherries: Cherries are another fruit that may not be well-tolerated by all breastfeeding infants. They can be quite acidic and may lead to similar digestive issues as citrus fruits. If a mother notices her baby becoming unusually fussy after she consumes cherries, it might be best to avoid them.
3. Prunes: While prunes are often recommended for their digestive benefits, they can also cause gas and bloating in some babies. This is particularly important to consider if the mother is consuming them in large quantities.
General Guidelines for Fruit Consumption
While the aforementioned fruits are often advised against, it’s essential to remember that every baby is different. Some infants may tolerate these fruits without any issues, while others may not. Therefore, it is advisable for breastfeeding mothers to introduce new foods gradually and observe their baby’s reactions closely.
AdditionallyFruits to Avoid During Breastfeeding
When breastfeeding, it’s important to be mindful of the foods you consume, as they can affect your baby through the breast milk. While many fruits are generally safe and even beneficial for breastfeeding mothers, there are a few fruits that are best avoided or consumed in moderation.
Citrus Fruits: Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes are high in citric acid, which can cause digestive issues in some babies. These fruits may lead to fussiness, gas, or even diaper rash in the infant. It’s recommended to limit or avoid citrus fruits during breastfeeding.
Cherries: Cherries contain a compound called sorbitol, which can act as a natural laxative. This can cause digestive problems, such as diarrhea, in the breastfed baby. It’s best to avoid or limit cherry consumption while breastfeeding.
Prunes: Similar to cherries, prunes are high in sorbitol, which can have a laxative effect on the baby. This can lead to loose stools or even diaper rash. Moderation is key when it comes to consuming prunes during breastfeeding.
Pineapple: Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which can cause digestive issues in some infants. While pineapple is generally safe in moderation, it’s a good idea to monitor your baby’s reaction if you do consume it.
Kiwi: Kiwi is another fruit that can cause digestive problems in some breastfed babies due to its high acid content. It’s best to consume kiwi in moderation or avoid it altogether during breastfeeding.
It’s important to note that every baby is different, and the effects of certain fruits may vary. If you notice any adverse reactions in your baby after consuming a particular fruit, it’s best to avoid that fruit or limit its consumption. Maintaining a balanced, nutrient-rich diet is crucial for both you and your breastfed baby.

What foods can stop breastmilk?

Peppermint, Parsley, and Sage
For instance, eating a lot of parsley could curb lactation. And too much sage and peppermint may cut your milk supply. For some nursing moms, even peppermint-flavored toothpaste and candies are a problem.

What fruits give breastfed babies gas?

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

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.

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 fruits cause colic in babies?

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

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 foods make breastfed babies poop more?

Mother’s diet – Remember that something in the mother’s diet may cause a breastfed baby to have more frequent or looser bowel movements–for example, coffee, cola, or herbal teas.

What foods are not good for breast milk?

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.) Peppermint or spearmint: (food, gum or candy with mint flavor) Sage: (sausage, dressing, wild rice mix, etc)

What foods dry up breast milk?

Which Foods Might Decrease Your Breast Milk Supply?

  • Alcohol.
  • Sage, Parsley, and Peppermint.
  • Chasteberry.
  • Pseudoephedrine, Methylergonovine, and Bromocriptine.

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.
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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