Research shows that a mother's milk is affected only slightly by the foods she eats. Breastfeeding mothers can eat whatever they have eaten during their lifetimes and do not need to avoid certain foods. Babies love the flavors of foods that come through in your milk. Sometimes a baby may be sensitive to something you eat, such as dairy products like milk and cheese. Symptoms in your baby of an allergy or sensitivity to something you eat include some or all of these:
- green stools with mucus, diarrhea, vomiting
- rash, eczema (EG-zuh-muh), dermatitis, hives, dry skin
- fussiness during and/or after feedings
- crying for long periods without being able to feel consoled
- sudden waking with discomfort
- wheezing, coughing
Babies who are highly sensitive usually react to the food the mother eats within minutes or within four to 24 hours afterwards. These signs do not mean the baby is allergic to your milk itself, only to something you are eating. If you stop eating whatever is bothering your baby or eat less of it, the problem usually goes away on its own. You also can talk with your baby's doctor about his symptoms. If your baby ever has problems breathing, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
