What spices should you avoid while breastfeeding?

Understanding Spices During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a crucial time for both mother and baby, and many new mothers often wonder about the impact of their diet on their milk and, consequently, their infant’s health. While there are no strict rules prohibiting specific spices, some considerations can help guide mothers in making informed choices.
Spicy Foods: A Mixed Bag
The consumption of spicy foods during breastfeeding is a topic of debate. Some sources suggest that spicy foods are generally safe and can even introduce a variety of flavors to the baby through breast milk, potentially aiding in the development of their palate. However, it’s essential to note that some babies may react differently to these flavors. If a mother notices signs of discomfort or fussiness in her baby after consuming spicy foods, it might be wise to limit or avoid them temporarily.
Strong Flavors and Their Effects
Certain spices, particularly those with strong flavors, can affect breast milk’s taste. For instance, garlic and onion are known to impart distinct flavors that some infants may find unappealing. While these spices are not harmful, they can lead to a baby rejecting breast milk if they are particularly sensitive to these flavors.
Caffeine and Other Considerations
While not a spice, caffeine is another substance that breastfeeding mothers should monitor. High caffeine intake can lead to irritability and sleep disturbances in infants. Therefore, moderation is key.
Herbs and Their Safety
When it comes to herbs, many are considered safe in culinary amounts. However, some herbs, like sage and peppermint, may reduce milk supply if consumed in large quantities. It’s advisable for breastfeeding mothers to be cautious with these herbs and consult healthcare providers if they have concerns.
Conclusion: Listen to Your Body and Baby
Ultimately, the best approach for breastfeeding mothers is to maintain a balanced diet while being attentive to their baby’s reactions. If a mother enjoys spicy or flavorful foods, she can continue to include them in her diet, but should remain observant of any changes in her baby’s behavior. Consulting with a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance tailored to individual dietary needs and preferences.

Why avoid cinnamon while breastfeeding?

Coumarin, an ingredient in some cinnamon products, can cause liver problems, but the amount you’d get is so small that it probably won’t be a problem. Given the lack of evidence about its safety, children, pregnant women, and women who are breastfeeding should avoid cinnamon as a treatment.

What foods dry up breast milk?

Which Foods Might Decrease Your Breast Milk Supply?

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

What should a breastfeeding mother avoid eating?

What not to eat and drink when breastfeeding

• 1 mug of filter coffee = 140mg.
• 1 mug of instant coffee = 100mg.
• 1 mug of tea = 75mg.
• 1 (250ml) can of energy drink = 80mg (larger cans may contain up to 160mg caffeine)
• 1 (354mls) cola drink = 40mg.
• 1 (50g) plain chocolate bar = up to 50mg.

What does cinnamon do to breastmilk?

to give an exotic flavor to your desserts, you can add cinnamon powder. This spice is also recommended for the production of breast milk. In addition to stimulating milk production, cinnamon gives excellent flavor and should delight the baby. A mixture of cinnamon and honey can only be beneficial for your newborn.

What spices decrease milk supply?

Peppermint and sage have properties that decrease milk supply. It’s not the only effective route to decrease supply but supplementing with other methods eating some can be really helpful.

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 is not recommended for breastfeeding?

The only true contraindications to breastfeeding are the following: Infants with classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency) Mothers, in the US, who are infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), untreated brucellosis, or suspected or confirmed Ebola virus disease.

What spices affect breast milk?

There’s no evidence to suggest that spicy foods should be avoided for your baby’s sake, either during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

What happens if a breastfeeding mother eats spicy food?

The answer: Snack on! You might have heard that spicy foods could make your breastfeeding baby fussy, gassy, or colicky. But there’s no evidence that spice-laden snacks and meals have any of these effects.

Are there any herbs to avoid while breastfeeding?

Herbs to avoid while breastfeeding

• Periwinkle Herb (Vinca minor)
• Sage (Salvia officinalis)
• Sorrel (Rumex acetosa)
• Spearmint
• Thyme
• Yarrow