17 Foods To Avoid While Breastfeeding | Diet Guide for Moms

Breast milk naturally adjusts to your baby's needs as they grow. Most foods are safe during breastfeeding, but some babies may react to certain foods in a mother's diet. These reactions can show up as gas, colic, fussiness, reflux, or mild allergies. This does not mean you need to follow a strict diet. Sensitivity is not the same as restriction. Watching your baby's response and making small adjustments works better than completely avoiding many foods.

17 Foods To Avoid While Breastfeeding

1. Coffee

Coffee contains caffeine, which passes into breast milk. Babies process caffeine much more slowly than adults, so even small amounts can sometimes affect them.

In some babies, too much caffeine may cause:

• Restlessness
• Poor or shorter sleep
• Increased fussiness

If you drink coffee while breastfeeding, try to limit the quantity and observe how your baby reacts.

2. Tea (Black or Green)

Black and green tea also contain caffeine, though usually less than coffee. Drinking several cups a day may still add up and affect your baby's sleep or make them unsettled.

Another point to note is that tea contains tannins, which can reduce iron absorption in mothers if consumed frequently. Moderation is key, and spacing tea intake away from meals can help.

3. Chocolate

Chocolate is often overlooked as a source of caffeine. Dark and plain chocolate contain more caffeine than milk chocolate.

Eating chocolate in excess while breastfeeding may:

• Disrupt your baby's sleep
• Make them irritable or restless

Occasional small amounts are usually fine, but if your baby seems sensitive, reducing chocolate intake may help.

4. Cabbage

Cabbage is healthy, but it is also one of the most gas-producing vegetables. When a breastfeeding mother eats a lot of cabbage, it may cause gas, bloating, or tummy discomfort in some babies. This can sometimes show up as fussiness or colic.

Small amounts are usually fine, especially if the cabbage is well cooked. The problem is more likely when it is eaten frequently or in large portions.

5. Broccoli

Broccoli is rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, but its high fibre content can sometimes lead to gas or bloating in sensitive babies. Some mothers notice their baby becoming more gassy after eating broccoli.

If this happens, try eating broccoli in smaller quantities or less often and see if your baby's symptoms improve.

6. Cauliflower

Cauliflower is another vegetable that can cause gas and colic-like symptoms in some breastfed babies. This is more common when cauliflower is eaten often or not cooked thoroughly.

Steaming or cooking cauliflower well and keeping portions moderate can help reduce digestive discomfort.

7. Onions

Onions contain strong natural compounds that can sometimes change the taste of breast milk. While many babies are not affected, some may become fussy or unsettled after feeds.

This usually happens when onions are eaten in large amounts, especially raw. Cooking onions well and eating them in moderation may reduce sensitivity.

8. Garlic

Garlic is commonly used in everyday cooking and is generally safe while breastfeeding. However, in some babies, it may cause reflux, gas, or feeding refusal, especially if consumed frequently.

If you notice your baby pulling away from feeds or becoming uncomfortable after you eat garlic-heavy meals, reducing the quantity may help.

9. Peppermint, Sage, and Parsley (in excess)

These herbs are flavourful and widely used, but when taken in large or frequent amounts, they may affect milk supply in some breastfeeding mothers.

• Peppermint and sage are known to have milk-reducing properties.
• Parsley, when eaten often or in large quantities, may also reduce lactation.

Small amounts used occasionally in cooking are usually fine. The concern is mainly with regular intake, herbal teas, or supplements.

10. Cow's Milk

Cow's milk protein is one of the most common triggers of food sensitivity or allergy in breastfed babies. The protein can pass into breast milk and may cause symptoms such as gas, colic, reflux, eczema, or blood in stools in sensitive infants.

If a cow's milk allergy is suspected, eliminating dairy should be done only with medical guidance to ensure proper nutrition for the mother.

11. Eggs, Peanuts, and Tree Nuts

Eggs and nuts are highly nutritious, but they are also common food allergens. In some breastfed babies, these foods may cause reactions such as rashes, eczema, vomiting, gas, or loose stools.

This doesn't mean all breastfeeding mothers need to avoid them. However, if you notice consistent symptoms in your baby after consuming these foods, it may be worth tracking intake and consulting a pediatrician before making dietary changes.

12. Raw Shellfish

Raw or undercooked shellfish carries a high risk of bacterial and toxin contamination. These contaminants can pass through breast milk and may pose a risk to your baby’s developing digestive and immune system.

For safety, it's best to avoid raw shellfish entirely while breastfeeding and choose well-cooked seafood instead.

13. Processed Foods

Highly processed foods often contain preservatives, artificial flavours, excess salt, and unhealthy fats, while offering very little nutritional value.

A diet high in processed foods may affect maternal nutrition, which indirectly impacts milk quality and overall energy levels. Choosing fresh, whole foods more often supports both milk production and maternal recovery.

14. Artificial Sweeteners and Sugary Drinks

Artificial sweeteners and sugar-loaded beverages like sodas and packaged juices may irritate a baby's digestive system and contribute to gas or fussiness.

For mothers, frequent consumption can reduce overall nutritional intake and lead to energy crashes. Opting for water, fresh juices, or naturally sweetened drinks is a better choice during breastfeeding.

15. Fish (High-Mercury Varieties)

Some fish, like kingfish, shark, and swordfish, contain high levels of mercury, a toxin that can pass into breast milk. Mercury may affect a baby's developing nervous system.

It's best to limit or avoid high-mercury fish while breastfeeding. Instead, choose low-mercury options such as salmon, sardines, or trout, and eat fish in moderation.

16. Spicy Foods

Spicy foods are popular and generally safe during breastfeeding. However, for some babies, spicy flavors may worsen reflux, gas, or diaper rash.

If you notice your baby is uncomfortable or fussy after you eat spicy meals, consider reducing the spice level or avoiding very hot dishes temporarily.

17. Alcohol

Alcohol passes quickly into breast milk and can affect your baby's sleep, feeding, and development. Drinking alcohol while breastfeeding is best kept to a minimum.

If you do drink, wait at least 2-3 hours per standard drink before breastfeeding to reduce alcohol levels in your milk.

Other Foods to Avoid or Limit While Breastfeeding

Some foods don't need to be completely avoided but are best eaten in moderation, especially if your baby shows signs of sensitivity.

• Gassy Foods: Beans, chickpeas, and soda can cause gas and discomfort in some breastfed babies. If you notice increased fussiness or bloating after eating these, try reducing the amount or frequency.
  
  
• Fenugreek (in Excess): Fenugreek is often used as a natural milk booster, but too much can sometimes cause babies to become gassy or fussy. Use it moderately and observe your baby’s reaction.
  
  
• Citrus Fruits (in Excess): Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons are healthy but can sometimes cause diaper rash or mild tummy upset if eaten in large amounts. Enjoy citrus in balanced portions.
  
  
• Spicy Pickles (Achar): Spicy pickles are flavorful but may irritate some babies, causing reflux or discomfort. It’s best to limit spicy pickles if you notice any sensitivity.

Fruits To Avoid While Breastfeeding (If Baby Is Sensitive)

Most fruits are safe and healthy during breastfeeding, but some babies may react to certain fruits with fussiness, gas, or diaper rash. If your baby is sensitive, consider limiting fruits that are highly acidic or known to cause reactions, such as:

• Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, limes) in large amounts
• Strawberries and other berries
• Pineapple
• Tomatoes (technically a fruit, often acidic)

Remember, it's about watching your baby's response. If there's no reaction, you don't need to avoid these fruits completely.

Indian & Gas Causing Foods To Avoid During Breastfeeding

Certain Indian foods and common gas-producing ingredients can cause discomfort for some breastfed babies. If your baby shows signs of gas, colic, or fussiness, consider limiting these foods:

• Spicy Curries and Foods: Strong spices like chili, black pepper, and excess garam masala can sometimes worsen baby's reflux or irritate their tummy.
  
  
• Deep-Fried Snacks: Samosas, pakoras, and other fried treats are hard to digest and may contribute to gas and digestive upset.
  
  
• Pickles and High-Salt Chutneys: These are flavorful but often very spicy and salty, which can cause discomfort or diaper rash in sensitive babies.
  
  
• Beans and Lentils: While nutritious, beans, chickpeas, and some lentils produce gas that may affect your baby if eaten in large amounts.
  
  
• Onions and Garlic: Common in Indian cooking, these can cause gas and fussiness in some babies when consumed frequently or in large quantities.

Cooking methods and portion sizes matter. Eating these foods in moderation and watching your baby's reactions can help you find the right balance.

Breastfeeding and Dieting

Breastfeeding nutrition is about balance, not strict restriction. Eating a variety of foods in the right amounts supports your health and helps provide quality milk for your baby.

Here are some key tips for a healthy breastfeeding diet:

• Eat small, frequent meals to keep your energy steady.
• Include good sources of protein, iron, calcium, and healthy fats every day.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
• Focus on whole, fresh foods rather than processed or junk foods.

Sample Breastfeeding Mother Diet Chart (Sample Day)

Morning: Warm water with soaked nuts (like almonds or walnuts) to start your day gently.

Breakfast: Idli, dosa, or oats served with cooked vegetables for a nutritious, energy-boosting meal.

Mid-morning Snack: Fresh fruit such as banana, apple, or papaya for vitamins and fiber.

Lunch: Rice or roti with dal (lentils) and cooked vegetables to provide protein, fiber, and minerals.

Evening Snack: Roasted makhana (fox nuts) or a handful of nuts for a light, healthy boost.

Dinner: A light, home-cooked meal focusing on easily digestible foods to aid restful sleep and digestion.

Breastfeeding Diet Myths You Can Ignore

Myth 1: You must eat double

You don't need to eat twice as much while breastfeeding. Instead, focus on balanced, nutritious meals that give you steady energy.

Myth 2: All spicy food is harmful.

Not all spicy foods cause problems. Many babies tolerate spices well. Watch your baby's reaction before avoiding spices completely.

Myth 3: Dieting stops milk supply.

Moderate, healthy weight loss usually doesn't affect milk production. Extreme dieting, however, can reduce supply, so prioritize nourishing your body.

Tips for a Healthy Breastfeeding Diet

• Introduce foods one at a time: This helps you spot any foods your baby might be sensitive to.
  
• Keep a food-reaction journal: Note what you eat and how your baby responds to identify patterns.
  
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support milk production.
  
• Trust your baby's cues: Your baby will let you know if something doesn’t agree with them through fussiness, gas, or changes in sleep.

Common Questions Asked By Mom Insider Moms

Breastfeeding comes with many everyday doubts, especially around food, medicines, and supplements. Here are common questions asked by breastfeeding moms.

Is it safe to take cough syrups like Ascoril D while breastfeeding?

Some cough syrups may be safe to use during breastfeeding, but others can contain ingredients like alcohol, antihistamines, or sedatives that might make your baby drowsy or irritable. It's important to avoid self-medicating and always consult your doctor before taking any cough syrup while breastfeeding. - Advice shared by Shalu, Mom Insider Mom

Can breastfeeding mothers eat desserts made with raw egg?

Foods containing raw or undercooked eggs (such as some desserts or creams) carry a risk of salmonella infection. While the bacteria doesn't pass directly through breast milk, the illness can affect the mother. It’s safer to avoid raw egg desserts and choose fully cooked alternatives during breastfeeding.

Is kingfish safe to eat while breastfeeding?

Kingfish can contain higher levels of mercury, which may pass into breast milk. Occasional consumption in small amounts is generally considered safe, but frequent intake is not recommended. Prefer low-mercury fish and keep portions moderate.

Are B-complex tablets safe during exclusive breastfeeding?

Yes, B-complex supplements are commonly prescribed during breastfeeding. A noticeable side effect is bright yellow urine in mothers, and sometimes in babies, which is harmless and due to excess vitamin B being excreted. If your baby seems otherwise well, this is usually not a cause for concern.

Can breastfeeding mothers take antacid tablets?

Most common antacids are considered safe during breastfeeding when taken occasionally. However, long-term or frequent use should be discussed with a healthcare provider, especially if acidity persists.

Do breastfeeding moms need postnatal multivitamins?

Many breastfeeding mothers benefit from postnatal multivitamins, especially if they experience joint pain, fatigue, or weakness. Calcium alone may not be enough, nutrients like vitamin D, iron, B12, and magnesium also play an important role. Consult your doctor to choose the right supplement.

Can breastfeeding mothers eat mascarpone cream or foods containing it?

Mascarpone cream may contain raw or lightly cooked egg depending on preparation. If unsure, it’s safer to limit or avoid such foods during breastfeeding to reduce infection risk. Always choose pasteurized and well-prepared foods.

Why am I feeling more gassy while breastfeeding?

Hormonal changes, increased calorie intake, and certain foods can make breastfeeding mothers feel more gassy. This is common and usually temporary. Eating slowly, avoiding very spicy or gassy foods, and staying hydrated can help.

Important Note: This information is meant for general guidance. For medications, supplements, or persistent symptoms in you or your baby, always consult your doctor or pediatrician.

A healthy breastfeeding diet is all about balance and listening to your body and baby. There's no need for strict restrictions or doubling your food intake. Focus on nutritious, varied meals, stay hydrated, and watch how your baby responds. Every mom and baby are different, so find what works best for you and your little one.