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Confinement Food You Should Avoid While Breastfeeding
Newborn babies rely on their mother’s milk for the first six months of life. Everything that a mother takes (whether good or bad) is transferred into the mother’s milk, even if sometimes the traces may be too minimal to cause any effect on the baby’s body. During this period, the mother has to watch her diet keenly to ensure that the baby gets all the nutrients necessary for its development. A good diet also aids in the proper functioning of the mother’s body and the baby’s. This comprises of a balanced breastfeeding friendly diet comprising of carbohydrates, vitamins, proteins, and minerals. She should try her best to stay away from any meals that may cause adverse effects to the baby.
Maintaining a nutritious diet is not only essential for the baby but it also preserves the mother’s energy at healthy levels. The professional caterers, caretakers and nannies will always advise you against taking some foods, but you can always take them in limited quantities provided they do not cause any harmful effect to the child. However, there are some specific foods that you should avoid at all costs due to their harmful health effects on the baby. Some of them include:
Alcoholic drinks
Understandably, alcoholic drinks are one of the things you look forward to having after months of pregnancy. However, consuming too much alcohol can take a toll on your baby as it can be passed down to your breast milk. The baby’s liver is not strong enough to handle any alcohol in the system, so any of it in the baby’s body may cause serious liver problems. This is not to say it is totally harmful, as wine is typically included in some confinement dishes and soups to give them the warm properties. If you wish to take a glass of alcohol, not to worry as you may still do so. Have it and leave two to three-hour gap before you breastfeed, or drink it after you are done breastfeeding.
Seafood
Most kinds of seafood are rich in proteins and Omega 3 fatty acids essential for the improvement of the baby’s nervous system. However, some seafood such as tuna and sharks have high levels of mercury, which may lead to brain damage and other developmental problems. Fatty fish, such as salmon, are good for breastfeeding mothers but you should limit the intake if you have a natural abundance of milk, in order to prevent clogging of milk ducts.
Cabbages
While vegetables are generally a great source of various nutrients, certain others like cabbages can cause excess gas and lead to bloating. It is also known as one of the cooling foods, so new mothers generally prefer to opt for other vegetables with heaty properties. If you are still in confinement and recovering from childbirth, you should limit the intake of this kind of vegetables to prevent constipation so you will not have to put a strain on your body. Plus, the baby’s digestive system may not be able to break down some of the nutrients inside this vegetable, which could lead to flatulence and stomach discomfort for the baby.
Chocolates and Other Caffeinated Products
Every woman loves chocolate, and sometimes binging on it is the last solution to the cravings. However, coffee, tea, and chocolate contain high levels of caffeine which could cause insomnia and an elevated heartbeat. Chocolates also introduce ‘wind’ in the stomach, leading to discomfort, and even fussiness of your baby. You may also have a problem with milk supply if you are used to high caffeine intake. Therefore, it is highly advisable to keep your caffeine intake at a minimum while breastfeeding.
Spicy Food
Spicy food cooked using mustard, pepper, and chilli is always hot and delicious. However, it can easily cause constipation and haemorrhoids. Some children are also allergic to spicy food, so you should monitor the baby’s reaction any time you eat spicy food.
You May Also Read this : “Can I just have a bite?” Food to Avoid When Breastfeeding
Thousands of dishes are available for consumption by a breastfeeding mother. However, you should be very particular about anything you consume, especially if you have family members with allergic reactions to some foods. Thankfully, Singapore confinement catering services can help you tide through this tough time. Remember that your diet is important in helping your recovery and your baby’s growth to go smoothly, so every meal you take should be safe and nutritious for your newborn child.
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