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Nutrition During Lactation

Potentially Harmful Substances

Although breastfeeding mothers have very few dietary restrictions, the following substances, when passed through your breast milk, can be harmful to your baby.

Alcohol

Since alcohol passes freely into a mother's breast milk, it is best to discuss alcohol consumption with your doctor. If you choose to drink alcohol, and your child exhibits any unusual symptoms or behavior, contact a doctor or lactation consultant; it may be a reaction to alcohol passed through your breast milk. It is also important to note that, contrary to popular belief, alcohol should not be used as a means of relaxation to stimulate let-down; large amounts of alcohol can, in fact, inhibit let-down. The best way to encourage let-down is to use relaxation techniques (music, tapes, deep-breathing, etc.)—not alcohol.

Nicotine

Given the documented health risks associated with tobacco use, it is recommended that all women quit smoking, especially during pregnancy and lactation. Yet despite best intentions, some mothers continue to smoke, and wonder how it will affect their babies if they breastfeed. Though nicotine is not readily absorbed by a baby's intestinal tract and is rather quickly metabolized, heavy or frequent smoking can interfere with let-down and inhibit your milk supply. Also, studies have shown that breastfed babies of smokers gain weight at a significantly lower rate than babies whose mothers don't smoke. In rare instances, babies who are breastfed by heavy smokers may exhibit symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and diarrhea. If your baby exhibits any of these symptoms, contact a doctor immediately. Finally, seek help from doctors, support groups, family members and friends and try to quit for your own health—as well as your baby's.

Medications

Consult your physician before taking any medication, including over-the-counter drugs or prescriptions. Although some over-the-counter and prescription drugs are generally safe, some medications (such as aspirin or 12-hour medications) can be harmful to your baby if taken too frequently. If you have a medical condition that requires you to take a certain medication, ask your doctor if breastfeeding is safe for you and your baby.

Illegal Drugs

Though illegal drugs are dangerous for all individuals, they are extremely dangerous for breastfeeding mothers and their babies. Drugs can cause extensive damage to a baby's nervous system, as well as other severe health consequences, including addiction, for your baby. If you are using illegal drugs, seek help from a friend, doctor or support group and stop breastfeeding immediately.

Special Circumstances

If you have any current health problems or diseases (HIV, cancer, etc.)—and/or are following a special diet, taking medications or receiving specialized treatment—speak to your doctor about possible risks or complications before you decide to breastfeed. Some illnesses, or harmful substances found in treatments or medications, can be passed to your baby through breast milk.

This publication is for general informational purposes only and it is not intended to provide any reader with specific authority, advice or recommendations. Where you deem necessary, we suggest that you seek advice regarding your particular situation from the appropriate professional.