There are various foods that you should avoid as a mother while breastfeeding. From raw fish to spicy foods, some foods can potentially have negative effects on the newborn while breastfeeding.
But don't worry, in this article we will discuss these “forbidden” foods in detail and give you an overview. Of course, we also take into account the latest scientific studies, some of which overturn old findings.
Which foods should I avoid while breastfeeding?
Nutrition has great importance for breastfeeding mothers. There are certain foods that women should avoid while breastfeeding. These may affect the quality of the milk.
Consuming large quantities of highly caffeinated drinks such as coffee, alcohol or energy drinks is not recommended. You should also avoid raw fish or seafood, raw milk products, raw sausage, chili and overly spicy or fatty foods, for example.
You should also avoid these fish, among others:
- Swordfish
- Tuna
- Hai
Alternatives are salmon, mackerel, herring or sardines. You can find many recipes on the internet. However, the topic of non-recommended foods is hotly debated - there are different opinions on it. But this aspect is a fact: you should definitely use healthy ingredients.
So eat a balanced diet. Simply avoid unhealthy foods and drinks with a high alcohol content or soft drinks. This way you take care of your and the baby's health.
By the way, you don't need to avoid allergenic foods such as cow's milk, cheese, eggs, fish and nuts. According to the Ärzteblatt , abstinence from breastfeeding does not prevent allergies and has no other positive effect.
Eat a balanced diet while breastfeeding
A balanced and healthy diet while breastfeeding is essential for you as a mother. In this way you ensure both your well-being and that of the child. Your calorie needs increase by 500 calories per day. Make sure the diet is rich in essential nutrients like these:- proteins
- vitamins
- minerals
Foods such as whole grains, legumes, protein-rich eggs, fresh fruits and vegetables, and lean meat and fish are excellent for a balanced diet. This covers your calorie needs and provides you with energy.
You can also use spices, pepper and salt without hesitation. With the right diet you ensure that the baby receives all the important nutrients and vitamins. This is needed for healthy growth and age-appropriate development.
In this context, our products such as the set for worry-free breastfeeding are an ideal supplement to meet these nutritional needs. Support the health of mother and child during this crucial period and enjoy some folic acid and minerals. This way you have the energy you need.
But don't just pay attention to eating the food. A few cups of tea are a pleasure and provide you with enough fluids. They also provide relief for abdominal pain.
Foods that are supposedly forbidden: myth vs. reality
As a breastfeeding mother, you have probably heard a lot of tips and advice. Everyone says something different. At the end of the day you ask yourself: “Which foods do I really need to avoid so that breast milk doesn’t harm the baby?”
An example of this is garlic and onions. Some people claim that these foods affect the taste of milk. However, this claim has not been scientifically confirmed to date. Many experts also recommend stopping alcohol consumption completely to avoid harm to the child.
As a mother, you can also treat yourself to a glass of champagne or wine 2 1/2 hours before the next breastfeeding session. Moderate coffee consumption is also not considered harmful. Women should also avoid salami for a while after pregnancy - according to the latest findings, this is no longer necessary.
Ultimately, a balanced diet is the be-all and end-all for breastfeeding mothers. You shouldn't let myths and half-truths confuse you. If you suspect that a certain product, such as sushi, is causing a reaction such as the child vomiting, simply leave it out.
Then revise your nutrition plan. As long as you eat consciously, you will cover your energy needs and offer a healthy breastfeeding meal for the child.
Grains, fruits and vegetables: what should I pay attention to?
Fruits and vegetables are considered an important part of a healthy diet because these products are rich in vitamins and fiber. In general, potatoes and grains should be the main ingredients. However, there are some things you should keep in mind. This means you and your baby will benefit from the benefits.
Avoid fruits and fruit juices with high acid content such as citrus fruits
Some fruits like lemons or pineapples have high acid content. It causes stomach upset in some babies. If your baby has digestive problems due to fruit, you should temporarily eliminate these acidic fruits from your diet.
Instead, choose fruits with lower acid content such as bananas and apples.
Try your hand at exotic fruits slowly
Although it may be tempting to try exotic fruits, you should be careful while breastfeeding. Certain exotic fruits such as mango, papaya and kiwi can cause allergic reactions in some babies, according to some experts. However, others say that it is safe to consume.
Rely on fresh fruits and vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables such as delicious apricots, carrots, spinach and asparagus are best when breastfeeding. They have a higher concentration of nutrients than processed products. Make sure you wash the fruit thoroughly before eating to remove any residues of pollutants such as pesticides or dirt.
Enjoy fiber-rich grains, fruits and vegetables
Whole grain bread is particularly suitable. Fruits such as apples, berries, pears, cherries and kiwis are also rich in fiber, which is important for healthy digestion. Adequate intake is the best remedy for constipation, which often occurs during breastfeeding.
However, be careful not to eat too much fiber at once as this can cause excessive bloating. Vegetables such as broccoli, peas, cabbage such as kale, lentils, leeks and beans appear to have a similar effect. The same applies here: the right amount usually makes the difference.
Eat fruit in moderation
As with any other food group, it's important to eat fruit in moderation. Too much fruit can lead to excessive fructose absorption in the body. This in turn causes problems with digestion.
Does diet change the taste of breast milk?
There is no scientific knowledge on this. But there is a theory that the taste of dairy products is influenced by the mother's diet. That is why some experts claim that the mother prepares the baby for different tastes.
The idea is that the mother eats different foods that the child will eat later in life. In this way, the baby should get to know and accept different tastes in the early stages. This means that mothers should ensure a balanced and varied diet.
Milk production inhibited by food: Is that possible?
Motherhood comes with many challenges. For example, many mothers worry about the amount of milk their newborn will receive. Some studies suggest that certain foods like hibiscus, peppermint, and sage can reduce milk production.
However, you should not draw your own conclusions from the results. It's best to talk to a doctor or midwife if you have any doubts. Every woman and every body is unique and breastfeeding is a highly emotional experience.
Decisions for or against specific products should be made based on individual needs and recommendations from professionals.
Stimulate milk production with the right diet
Producing sufficient breast milk is crucial for breastfeeding mothers. Oatmeal, for example, rich in fiber and protein, not only promotes milk production. They also contribute to the mother's overall health.
Fennel, known for its antispasmodic properties, may also increase milk production. Just make yourself a cup of tea every day. Fenugreek consists of nutrients and phytoestrogens that also strengthen breast tissue.
Malt beer, which has many vitamins and minerals, also has a positive effect. It is undisputed that a nursing mother's diet has a direct influence on the amount of milk she produces. This is where Havsund products come into play: They ideally complement the foods mentioned.
They support a healthy and balanced diet, which is needed for successful milk production. This means you get vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, iron, iodine, calcium and other substances in the right amounts. Our preparations were developed by experts so that, above all, the body's nutrition works.
So you can be on the safe side with a nutritional supplement so that the right concentration of vitamins is present in your breast milk. Do you have any questions about these topics? Then contact us. We offer you the support you need. We help parents so that mothers and babies receive optimal care.
Official list of banned foods: is there one?
For nursing mothers, there is no official list of foods to avoid after pregnancy. However, it is best to avoid potentially harmful foods such as alcohol, caffeine or raw seafood or only consume them in small quantities.
Cigarettes are also problematic for successful breastfeeding - babies otherwise suffer more often from colic, stomach pain and are more restless. You should also ask your doctor in advance if you want to take medication while breastfeeding.
Maintain good health with a balanced diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. In this way, you as a mother are fit and ensure a healthy milk supply. As long as you follow these tips, there is no reason to worry.
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