International Breastfeeding Week just started on the August 1st and will last till the 7th of the same month. The day aims at highlighting the importance of breastfeeding both for the mom and the baby. WHO and UNICEF have this year planned to join hands this year and have collectively laid down some policies to improve breastfeeding conditions. Some of the policies include paid maternity leave, paid paternity leave and parent-friendly workplace. Another important point that needs a lot of attention is the mother and the baby's nutrition. Especially in under-developed countries like India, where along with low awareness, there is ever a lack of resources.
When it comes to diet for breastfeeding moms, the range of foods consumed by a nursing mom should be diverse. They should ideally consume a balanced diet that includes rich soluble fibres, ample amount of proteins, healthy carbs and fats. However, there are a few food items that nursing mothers must avoid. Some of these foods may not be otherwise unhealthy but may not be suitable for women who are breastfeeding.
Here are some of the foods that breastfeeding moms should avoid
Cabbage, Beans, Brussels and Other gassy Foods
While foods like beans, broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts, etc are quite healthy, they are known to cause gas in the stomach. East these foods in small quantity to reduce bloating, burping, etc, in kids a lot, especially if your baby has colic, avoid these foods.
Alcohol
Right from pregnancy to while you are breastfeeding, booze in any form is a big NO-NO. Not only will it harm your baby but the baby will also not like the altered taste of your breast milk.
Tea and Coffee
Caffeine might dehydrate you as well as affect your sleep and even your baby's. It is also known to make it harder for your body to absorb iron. Therefore it is advised to consume them in very small quantity and avoid them while you eat foods that are rich in iron.
Spicy Foods
As you know spicy food may not make your baby happy. It might make your baby gassy and also may lead to diarrhoea.
Foods not to eat while breastfeeding[Watch Video]:
Even if you plan on eating any of the above, you must remember to have them is a small quantity, however, alcohol is a big NO-NO.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 02, 2019 09:27 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).