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Dos and Don'ts; while I breastfeed?
Bub Hub E-Newsletter, March 2005, Issue 33 - Article 1


Many women find the time before falling pregnant or during pregnancy is when they begin to start watching their diet, their alcohol consumption and anything else they may ingest, in the interest of their unborn baby.

After what can seem a long nine months, some mothers feel the need to celebrate the new sense of freedom they may feel. Suddenly they can see their toes, breathe with ease or even eat without terrible heartburn. This is definitely a time to celebrate.

Unfortunately there are many 'Old Wives Tales' or 'Myths' that abound about what breastfeeding mothers can and can't eat while they breastfeed their babies. Most women are told to avoid consuming foods that may cause 'wind' in babies, such as cabbage, peas, broccoli, oranges and the list goes on. They are also told to avoid chocolate or sweets, which may cause skin rashes.


Diet
Generally, unless your family or your partner's family has a history of an allergic response to particular foods, it is important to eat a normal, varied diet while you're pregnant or breastfeeding. The Australian Breastfeeding Association avocates that mothers eat the diet that is normal for them and their family and everything in moderation. Drink according to thirst, water is ideal. Most breastfeeding mothers report an increase in their thirst, particularly while establishing breastfeeding in the early days. Having a glass of water handy before you begin a breastfeed can be helpful. A moderate consumption of tea or coffee is generally not considered harmful to a breastfeeding mother or her baby. It has been suggested that decaffeinated drinks, soup or water-based squashes may be used as alternatives to caffeine-based drinks.

Alcohol
Although it is preferable to avoid alcohol altogether while pregnant or breastfeeding, as your baby gets older, you may decide to have a drink. If so, try to choose a low-alcohol drink, and drink it slowly. Avoid situations where other people are 'topping up' your drink, where you may not be aware of how much you have had. If possible, allow time for your body to clear the alcohol before your baby needs her next feed. Some mothers express some milk beforehand, to feed to their baby while they are waiting for the alcohol to leave their system.

Medications & Supplements
Mothers are often concerned when they are breastfeeding about taking medications or other drugs. To minimise your baby's exposure, it is important to check with your health adviser before taking any drugs, including herbal supplements and medications that can be bought over the counter. There are many drugs that will be safe to use while breastfeeding, but almost all drugs are excreted into breastmilk to some extent. Your health adviser will be able to guide you on the most suitable drug to use while breastfeeding or help you manage the use of any drug prescribed.

Keeping the supply going
Many foods and drinks have been purported to increase the milk supply of a breastfeeding mother. As the breast works on a supply and demand basis it is more important to empty the breast at a feed than worry about what you could eat to improve the situation. It is comforting to know, the more you breastfeed, the more milk you will produce. If you feel your milk supply is low you could try fitting in an extra feed or two each day to build the supply up.

Many of the issues discussed within this article are also covered in the Australian Breastfeeding Association's booklet Looking After Yourself, and also in the new edition of Breastfeeding ?naturally. Completely revised and expanded, this book takes you through the early days of breastfeeding and right through until weaning. These are a must for every mum.

Lee King - Australian Breastfeeding Association Director

This article was kindly provided by the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA)

website: www.breastfeeding.asn.au
ABA's Online Store: www.mothersdirect.com.au
Australia-wide ABA groups & counselling services:


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