Alcohol and Breastfeeding ~ Is it safe?

Alcohol Consumption Whilst Breastfeeding 

Should a mother completely refrain, from drinking alcohol while breastfeeding?

It depends. If Mom would like to have the occasional drink whilst breastfeeding, it is okay. Moderation is key. The exception is this: If Baby is younger than three months of age, alcohol consumption should be avoided all together.

A baby that is younger than three months, lacks the capability to handle even small amounts of alcohol.

How much is too much? 

On average about two drinks per week, is acceptable.

Consuming too much alcohol whilst breastfeeding, can cause low milk supply problems, and the flow of milk is slowed down (especially in Moms who have diabetes).

A Mom who drink more than the recommended amount, will notice that Baby sleeps less, but seem drowsy while awake. Motor skill development is especially compromised, as well as weight gain.

Pumping and dumping your milk, does nothing to remove alcohol from milk.

There are a few RULES to go by, for those Moms who have the occasional drink:

• Never breastfeed, if you are feeling tipsy.

• If you want a drink, drink after a breastfeeding session.

• After a drink, you need to wait three hours before you can breastfeed again.

• Never drink if your baby is younger than three months.

• Moms, that breastfeed, who are on any medications, should NEVER drink alcohol.

• If you know that you will be drinking, pump and store some extra milk for baby.

Overuse of alcohol can also cause:

• Acid reflux in Baby.

• Skin allergies in Baby.

• Colic symptoms in Baby.

• Moms who struggle with Raynaud’s syndrome, might notice worse symptoms when they consume alcohol.

• Moms who drink alcohol, are more prone to postpartum depression.

Beer and Breastfeeding; for Increasing Milk Supply. 

Beer has traditionally been used as a lactogenic substance (A substance that increases milk supply). Beer has been proven to increase supply, BUT drinking the amounts of beer you will need to increase supply, would not be safe while breastfeeding. There is good news though, non-alcoholic dark beers, have the same lactogenic effect!

Personally, I think there are better methods of increasing supply. Some of these include: lactogenic foods like coconut water, seaweed or oatmeal. A few supplements that can help include: Brewers yeast, Fenugreek and Spirulina.

So, bottom line, some moms who are breastfeeding, can enjoy the occasional alcoholic beverage without feeling guilty, as long as they stick to the guidelines mentioned here.

http://www.breastfeeding-problems.com/alcohol-and-breastfeeding.html

Author ~
Tracy Ann Behr: Breastfeeding Mom of two, Breastfeeding Helper, currently studying at Childbirth International for breastfeeding counselor and Birth doula certification.