what foods does the milk contain?

[ellie_star]

Hi,
I have a question anout the nutrition that goes into breastmilk..
My baby is 8 weeks old and I have been breasfeeding her without hassle.. I have been careful to eat a healthy diet with fruit, vegies, cereals, lean meat, milk etc and have tried to limit unhealthy foods as I don't want to contaminate her milk - however I have eaten some chocolater, cake and icecream and am wondering if this will effect her nutrition or if the sugar/fat/chemicals in the food actually go into the milk?
There are no allergies in my family and she hasnt seemed to be effected but I would hate to think she is drinking sugar or additives in her milk!
Thanks,
Ellie

[Pinky McKay]

Hi Ellie_star

You are being wonderfully responsible with your diet but please dont worry that you have 'contaminated' the milk your baby is receiving.


Many things pass through into your breastmilk,but most are not harmful to your baby, except some medications, drugs or alcohol (which should be limited during breastfeeding and impairs your responsiveness to your baby however you are feeding so isnt compatible with mothering unless you have a responsible babysitter organised).

Your milk is magically made to contain the perfect nutrition for your baby and although some foods that pass through your milk may upset some sensitive babies, these foods have been processed by your body first - it isnt like feeding your baby a chocolate bar, for instance.

Just keep eating a wide variety of foods as close to their natural state as possible and your baby will have the very best nutrition available. An occasional 'treat' wont hurt you or your baby.

Pinky