I often hear moms talking about what they can and can’t eat while they are breastfeeding. The truth is that most moms don’t need to change their diet to breastfeed their little ones. Often we hear stories about how broccoli or beans are bad for the baby, that they will make them gassy. The truth is that breastmilk is not made in the digestive tract and even if certain foods make you gassy as a breastfeeding mother, those effects don’t pass through your breastmilk.
We often encourage moms to eat a healthy diet, with varied foods, and as close to their natural state as possible. We know that eating a healthy diet is what is best for mom. You being healthy is important as a parent, whether you are breastfeeding or not. Your body will make sure your baby gets what they need. If your diet is lacking in certain vitamins and minerals, your body will take it from your stores to get it to your baby. Your baby won’t suffer, but you might.
The bottom line is that most people will tell you that any diet is fine. And in reality, we know that the babies are nourished by the milk of their mother, even when adequate food sources are unavailable. We also know that humans feel better when they eat a diet full of a variety of foods, that nourish their bodies.
So do you have to eat a perfect diet to breastfeed? No. Will you be better in the long run if you are mindful of what you eat and make healthier choices? Absolutely. But don’t let your diet be a barrier to breastfeeding.
Do you have favorite go to foods while breastfeeding? What are they?
