What is safe to take for upset stomach while breastfeeding?

Understanding Upset Stomach While Breastfeeding
Experiencing an upset stomach can be uncomfortable for anyone, but for breastfeeding mothers, the concern often extends beyond personal discomfort to the well-being of their infant. It’s crucial to navigate this situation carefully, considering both dietary choices and safe remedies.
Dietary Considerations
First and foremost, diet plays a significant role in how a breastfeeding mother feels and how her baby reacts. Certain foods can cause discomfort for infants, so it’s essential to monitor what you eat. Common culprits include dairy products, spicy foods, and caffeine, which may lead to gas or irritability in babies.
When dealing with an upset stomach, some foods can be particularly soothing. Bananas, white rice, and applesauce are often recommended for their gentle nature on the digestive system. These foods are not only easy to digest but also provide necessary nutrients without overwhelming the stomach.
Safe Remedies for Upset Stomach
For immediate relief from an upset stomach, several remedies are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers:
– Antacids: Over-the-counter options like Tums and Rolaids can help neutralize stomach acid and provide quick relief. These medications are generally safe during breastfeeding.

– Chamomile Tea: This herbal tea is known for its calming properties and can help soothe cramping and inflammation in the digestive tract. However, it’s advisable to consume it in moderation and observe how your body reacts.
– Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially if the upset stomach is accompanied by diarrhea or vomiting. Oral rehydration solutions can be beneficial, but mothers should avoid products containing bismuth subsalicylate, such as Pepto Bismol, as they may not be safe for breastfeeding.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While many remedies are safe, it’s important to recognize when to consult a healthcare professional. If symptoms persist or worsen, or if there are signs of dehydration, it’s essential to seek medical advice. Additionally, if a mother suspects that her diet is causing her baby discomfort, she should consider discussing dietary adjustments with a pediatrician.
Conclusion
Navigating an upset stomach while breastfeeding requires a careful balance of self-care and consideration for the baby. By choosing gentle foods, utilizing safe remedies, and staying aware of dietary impacts, mothers can find relief while ensuring their infants remain comfortable. Always remember, when in doubt, consulting with a healthcare provider is the best course of action to ensure both mother and baby stay healthy.

Can I take Tums while breastfeeding?

Antacids, alginates, H2-receptor antagonists or proton pump inhibitors can be used during breastfeeding.

Can I take Pepto Bismol while breastfeeding?

Pepto-Bismol and breastfeeding
Do not take Pepto-Bismol if you’re breastfeeding.

Will my upset stomach affect my baby while breastfeeding?

A nursing mother with diarrhea caused by food or water sources can continue to breastfeed her child. However, she should also increase her own fluid intake to prevent dehydration (loss of too much water in the body). The organisms that cause travelers’ diarrhea do not pass through breast milk.

What can I take to settle my stomach while breastfeeding?

Medicines to treat gas and bloating, such as Gas-X, Maalox, Mylanta, and others, are safe to take while breastfeeding. They contain simethicone, which is sometimes given to infants. It is also not absorbed into the mother’s system, so wouldn’t be transmitted in breast milk.

How can I settle my stomach while breastfeeding?

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends kaolin-pectin products (such as Kaopectate) or loperamide products (such as Imodium) for nursing mothers with diarrhea. Bismuth subsalicylate compounds (such as Pepto Bismol) contain enough aspirin ingredients that they may not be safe for your baby.

What is the quickest way to get rid of a stomach bug?

Self care

1. Let your stomach settle. Stop eating solid foods for a few hours.
2. Try sucking on ice chips or taking small sips of water often.
3. Ease back into eating.
4. Avoid certain foods and substances until you feel better.
5. Get plenty of rest.
6. Try anti-diarrhea medications.

What can you take for a stomach bug while breastfeeding?

Some people are prescribed (or buy) prochlorperazine (Buccastem ®, Stemetil ®) tablets to relieve the nausea and vomiting, loperamide (Imodium®) to reduce the symptoms of diarrhoea and rehydrating sachets (Dioralyte ®) to prevent dehydration. These drugs are suitable to take and carry on breastfeeding as normal.

What is the number one reason breastfed babies have upset stomach?

No one can deny breast milk is the ultimate superfood — but if a nursing baby is sensitive to something in your diet, it can spell trouble for their tummy. Spicy foods, dairy, and caffeine are a few potential contenders that may unsettle baby’s stomach.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended for breastfeeding?

However, caution is advised for cetirizine use while breastfeeding due to the theoretical risk of CNS depression based on limited human data and risk of decreased milk production.

What medication can a lactating mother take for stomach pain?

If you need some symptom relief, use an antacid or ranitidine to ease discomfort. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor for advice if symptoms persist.