Can You Eat Beans While Breastfeeding?

Can you eat beans while breastfeeding? Read on to know....

Monday, February 27, 2017, 11:56 [IST]

With each phase of maternity, there would surely be a lot of doubts and confusions in the minds of new mothers. The confusion on what to eat and what not to will stay with you even after your pregnancy, and during your nursing period.

There are many things that should be taken care of when you are in the breastfeeding stage. Whatever you take will have a direct or indirect impact on your baby's health.

There are some things that you should note, even while you take healthy foods. There are some healthy foods that may cause mild to severe reactions in babies. This can range from babies suffering with colic to having severe allergy.

Some food allergens can be transferred to your young ones through breast milk. These food allergens may cause colic in your baby and lead to discomfort. Here is when some food items like beans will be looked upon as a culprit.

Beans are rich in protein and they are very essential for breastfeeding mothers. However, when a mother feeds on beans, the components present in beans may lead to colic in a few babies. It may not suit some of the babies, leading to gas formation and discomfort.

Beans is completely a healthy option for breastfeeding mothers. But, if your baby shows any signs of discomfort, it is best to take extra care. Here, we will discuss on the use of beans in breastfeeding mothers and when not to take it.

Advantage 1: Helps Increase The Milk Production

Beans are protein rich and this will provide you with enough energy and nutrients. The high content of protein is very effective in increasing the milk production.

Many home remedies for increasing milk production recommend the intake of beans. This can be kidney beans, black beans, lima beans, black-eyed peas, lentils or split peas.

Advantage 2: Beans Are Highly Nutritious

Beans are the mature form of legumes. Apart from the high supply of proteins, beans contain a good amount of iron and zinc.

High levels of potassium, folate and dietary fiber makes it a good option to have beans while you are breastfeeding.

Advantage 3: Supports Weight Loss

After pregnancy, you may be trying to reduce your weight. Know that beans can support your weight loss goals. Since it is high in protein, you will stay alert and active for a longer period of time. Also, the fiber content in beans will help reduce your extra food intake by making you feel full.

When Not To Take Beans

If you find that your baby is having colic issues when you take beans, it is better to avoid or reduce the intake. Watch if your baby is crying unusually after he/she has been breastfed.

Also, if you are at a risk of high uric acid level in the body, it is better to avoid protein-rich foods like beans.

How To Reduce Colic Due To Beans

You can take beans by trying some tips to reduce colic problem in your baby. Pressure cook, mash or boil the beans in water before taking it.

This will reduce the gas formation. Soaking beans in water and changing the water two to three times before cooking it is also known to be very helpful.

To prevent colic in your baby due to beans, adding herbs like fennel, lemon balm or caraway is also known to be highly effective.