August 1-7 is World Breastfeeding Week. A breastfeeding mother's diet plays a crucial role in ensuring her baby's well-being. There are some foods a woman should avoid im this period, says Dr Jagdish Kathwate, Consultant Neonatologist and Paediatrician, Motherhood Hospital, Kharadi Pune.
"Specific foods can cause discomfort for the baby or pass through breast milk and potentially cause allergic reactions or digestive issues," Dr Jagdish Kathwate says. He lists 10 foods that women who breastfeed should consider avoiding or consuming in moderation.
Limit your intake of caffeinated beverages like coffee, tea, and soda. High levels of caffeine may make your baby fussy, and irritable, or disrupt their sleep patterns.
It's advisable to avoid alcohol while breastfeeding as it can pass into breast milk. Alcohol consumption can affect your baby's development and cause drowsiness, weakness, or feeding difficulties.
Spicy foods can cause discomfort for some babies and may lead to fussiness, gas, or diaper rash. If you notice any adverse reactions in your baby after consuming spicy foods, it's best to avoid them.
Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage, as well as beans and lentils, can cause gas in some babies. If you notice excessive gassiness or discomfort in your baby, consider reducing the intake of these foods.
Some babies may be sensitive to acidic fruits like oranges, lemons, and tomatoes. These fruits can cause diaper rash or upset stomachs in some breastfed infants.
Certain types of fish, such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish, contain high levels of mercury. Mercury can be harmful to the baby's developing nervous system. Opt for low-mercury fish like salmon, trout, and cod.
If there is a family history of nut allergies, consider avoiding peanuts and tree nuts while breastfeeding. There is a slight chance of transmitting allergenic proteins through breast milk.
Some babies may develop cow's milk protein allergy through breast milk if the mother consumes dairy products. If your baby shows signs of an allergy, consult a pediatrician before eliminating dairy from your diet.
Chocolate contains caffeine and other stimulants that can affect some babies. Pay attention to your baby's reaction after consuming chocolate, and reduce intake if necessary.
Artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose should be consumed cautiously, as they can pass into breast milk and may not be suitable for some infants.
"If you suspect a specific food is causing discomfort for your baby, try eliminating it from your diet and observe any changes. Keep a food diary to help identify potential triggers. Consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare provider for personalised dietary recommendations," says Dr Jagdish Kathwate.