Foods To Avoid While Breastfeeding Acid Reflux Baby
Introduction
Breastfeeding is one of the best ways to provide a newborn with the necessary nutrients and antibodies for a healthy start in life. However, for some mothers, breastfeeding can be challenging especially when the baby has acid reflux. Acid reflux is a common condition in babies where the stomach contents come back up into the esophagus. This can cause discomfort and pain to the baby. As a breastfeeding mother, it is important to be mindful of what you eat to avoid worsening your baby's acid reflux symptoms. In this article, we will discuss foods to avoid while breastfeeding an acid reflux baby.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are highly acidic and can cause irritation to the baby's esophagus. The acidity in these fruits can also trigger acid reflux symptoms in the baby. As a breastfeeding mother, it is best to avoid these fruits and opt for other non-acidic fruits such as bananas, apples, and pears.
Spicy Foods
Spicy foods are known to cause heartburn and indigestion in adults. Similarly, spicy foods can also irritate the baby's esophagus and trigger acid reflux symptoms. It is best to avoid spicy foods such as hot sauce, chili peppers, and curry while breastfeeding an acid reflux baby.
Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant that can increase the baby's heart rate and cause irritability. Caffeine can also relax the lower esophageal sphincter, which can allow stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. As a breastfeeding mother, it is best to limit your caffeine intake by avoiding coffee, tea, and soda.
Chocolate
Chocolate contains high levels of caffeine and can also relax the lower esophageal sphincter, which can trigger acid reflux symptoms. As a breastfeeding mother, it is best to avoid chocolate or limit your intake.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are highly acidic and can cause irritation to the baby's esophagus. Tomato-based products such as spaghetti sauce, pizza sauce, and ketchup should also be avoided. As a breastfeeding mother, it is best to opt for other non-acidic vegetables such as carrots, peas, and green beans.
Onions
Onions are known to cause heartburn and indigestion in adults. Similarly, onions can also irritate the baby's esophagus and trigger acid reflux symptoms. As a breastfeeding mother, it is best to avoid onions or limit your intake.
Conclusion
As a breastfeeding mother of an acid reflux baby, it is important to be mindful of what you eat. Avoiding or limiting the intake of acidic, spicy, and caffeinated foods can help reduce the baby's acid reflux symptoms. It is also important to keep a food diary to track which foods trigger your baby's acid reflux symptoms. By making simple changes to your diet, you can help your baby feel more comfortable and happy while breastfeeding.