Breastfeeding mothers should follow a diet that includes plenty of water and an adequate amount of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and low-fat dairy products.
Colic is defined as frequent, intense, and prolonged fussiness or crying in a healthy infant. Babies between three and six weeks of age seem to be affected by colic; however, it can last for up to a year. Eventually, colic will run its course, and most babies outgrow it around 6 to 12 weeks of age.
It's always heartbreaking to hear your baby cry. That feeling that there's nothing you can do to help is devastating. It can be especially challenging when a baby's colic causes them to cry or fuss for several hours, often in the evening. We're here to help!
Avoid Skipping Meals: It is essential to try to eat three healthy meals a day, including small snacks in between. You may not feel very hungry, but your body needs the nutrients so it can provide them for your nursing baby. Eating a small meal is better than not eating anything. If, for some reason, you can't stomach eating, please contact your doctor as soon as possible!
Limit Caffeine: This can be a challenge, especially for mothers who enjoy coffee or caffeinated beverages. Chocolate, coffee, tea, and soda should be limited or avoided because they can affect some babies.
Drink Plenty of Water: It is essential to drink enough water while breastfeeding. You need to stay hydrated, and more importantly, your body needs the water to produce enough breast milk for your nursing baby.
Avoid Foods That Cause Gas: Some babies are affected when their mothers eat foods that cause gas. Broccoli, cabbage, and beans are a few examples. If you notice your baby fussing or their colic getting worse when you eat certain foods, try to find substitutes to avoid further problems.
Avoid Citrus Fruit: It's a good idea to eat plenty of fruit while you're breastfeeding. However, sometimes citrus fruits should be avoided, as they can aggravate the baby's colic.
Since what you eat affects your breastfeeding baby, you'll need to be very careful. Believe it or not, some foods you eat can trigger an allergic reaction in your little one. Some of the most common allergenic foods are eggs, wheat, peanuts, and cow's milk. If you notice any changes in your newborn after eating certain foods, cut them out of your diet for a while to see how things go.
Breastfeeding your little one can be a blessing! Don't let colic stop you from doing what feels right. If you have questions or concerns about how your diet might be affecting your baby, talk to your doctor as well as your baby's pediatrician. They can assess the situation and see what can be done to help your sweet little one.
