hamburgerIcon

Orders

login

Profile

STORE
SkinHairFertilityBabyDiapersMore

Lowest price this festive season! Code: FIRST10

ADDED TO CART SUCCESSFULLY GO TO CART

In this Article

    From Crust to Cravings: Can Breastfeeding Mother Eat Pizza?

    Diet & Nutrition

    From Crust to Cravings: Can Breastfeeding Mother Eat Pizza?

    Updated on 27 February 2024

    Are you a pizza-loving new mom wondering if you can indulge in a slice without affecting your breastfeeding routine? The age-old debate about whether certain foods are off-limits for breastfeeding mothers often leads to confusion and apprehension. In this article, we delve into the delicious world of pizza and explore can breastfeeding mother eat pizza.

    Can I eat pizza while breastfeeding?

    Breastfeeding is a beautiful and intimate bond between a mother and her baby, but it also comes with its fair share of dietary considerations. Many new mothers wonder if they can indulge in their favorite foods, such as pizza, while breastfeeding. The answer is not a simple yes or no, as it depends on several factors.

    It's essential for breastfeeding mothers to maintain a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients. Pizza can be a part of this as long as it's consumed in moderation alongside a range of other nutritious foods. Enjoying pizza as an occasional treat rather than a staple in your diet can help maintain a healthy balance.

    Reasons to avoid pizza during breastfeeding

    While pizza can be a delicious treat, there are a few reasons why breastfeeding mothers might want to exercise caution when it comes to indulging in this cheesy delight.

    1. Spicy toppings

    Some pizzas come with spicy toppings like pepperoni or jalapenos. Spicy foods can cause discomfort for both the mother and the baby, leading to issues like indigestion or diaper rash. It's advisable to steer clear of spicy pizza until your baby's digestive system matures.

    2. High sodium content

    Pizza, especially the processed varieties, can be high in sodium. Consuming excessive sodium can lead to water retention and can even affect the quality of breast milk. It's important to maintain a well-balanced diet and limit your intake of high-sodium foods.

    3. Unhealthy fats

    Pizza often contains unhealthy fats, such as saturated and trans fats, which can have a negative impact on your overall health. These fats can be transferred to breast milk and may affect your baby's development. Opting for healthier alternatives can be a better choice.

    4. Digestive issues

    Certain ingredients commonly found in pizza, like onions and garlic, can cause gas or indigestion in babies. If your little one seems uncomfortable or gassy after you consume pizza, it might be best to avoid it for the time being.

    5. Potential allergens

    Pizza often contains ingredients such as cheese, tomatoes, and gluten, which can be common allergens for both babies and mothers. If your baby shows signs of allergies or sensitivities, it might be best to avoid pizza for a while.

    Precautions to follow if you decide to consume pizza while breastfeeding

    If you simply can't resist the allure of pizza and choose to enjoy it while breastfeeding, there are a few precautions you can take to minimize any potential risks.

    1. Moderation is key

    Enjoy pizza in moderation. Limit your portion size and frequency of consumption to reduce the impact on your baby's digestive system and overall health.

    2. Choose your toppings wisely

    Opt for pizza with mild toppings that are less likely to cause digestive issues or allergies. Avoid spicy or strongly flavored options that could upset your baby's delicate tummy.

    3. Go for healthier options

    Look for pizzas made with whole wheat crust, fresh vegetables, and lean protein. These choices provide a healthier balance of nutrients and can be a better option for both you and your baby.

    4. Stay hydrated

    Drinking plenty of water is crucial for breastfeeding mothers. It helps maintain milk supply and flushes out any toxins from your system. Make sure to stay adequately hydrated, especially when consuming foods like pizza that can be high in sodium.

    5. Observe your baby's reactions

    Pay close attention to any changes in your baby's behavior or health after you consume pizza. If you notice any adverse reactions, such as fussiness, rashes, or digestive issues, it may be a sign that pizza doesn't agree with your little one. In such cases, it's best to avoid it for the time being.

    Healthy alternatives for breastfeeding moms

    If you're craving the flavors of pizza during breastfeeding but want to opt for healthier alternatives, here are five options that can satisfy your taste buds without compromising your baby's health:

    1. Veggie-loaded flatbread

    Top a whole wheat flatbread with an assortment of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach. Add a sprinkle of cheese and bake until crispy. This guilt-free alternative is packed with vitamins and minerals.

    2. Cauliflower crust pizza

    Replace the traditional pizza crust with a cauliflower crust for a low-carb and gluten-free option. Load it up with your favorite toppings and enjoy a guilt-free pizza indulgence.

    3. Pita pizza

    Use whole wheat pita bread as the base for your pizza. Top it with tomato sauce, a sprinkle of cheese, and your favorite toppings. Pop it in the oven for a few minutes until the cheese melts, and voila! A quick and healthy pizza fix.

    4. Quinoa crust pizza

    Quinoa is a nutrient-rich grain that can be used as a base for a pizza crust. Mix cooked quinoa with eggs and herbs, spread it out on a baking sheet, and bake until crispy. Add your desired toppings and bake again until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

    5. Zucchini pizza boats

    Slice zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the center to create a base for your pizza toppings. Fill the zucchini boats with tomato sauce, cheese, and your favorite vegetables or lean protein. Bake until tender and enjoy a nutritious pizza alternative.

    The Bottomline

    Can breastfeeding mother eat pizza? While pizza can be a tempting treat, breastfeeding mothers should approach it with caution. Certain ingredients and flavors might not sit well with your baby's delicate digestive system or could trigger allergies. If you decide to indulge in pizza during breastfeeding, opt for healthier alternatives or modify the toppings to make it more suitable for breastfeeding. Remember, moderation is key, and your baby's health should always be the top priority.

    References

    1. Bravi F, Di Maso M, Eussen SRBM, Agostoni C, Salvatori G, Profeti C, (May 2021) On Behalf Of The Medidiet Working Group. Dietary Patterns of Breastfeeding Mothers and Human Milk Composition: Data from the Italian MEDIDIET Study. Nutrients.

    2. Jeong G, Park SW, Lee YK, Ko SY, Shin SM. (Mar 2017). Maternal food restrictions during breastfeeding. Korean J Pediatr.

    Is this helpful?

    thumbs_upYes

    thumb_downNo

    Written by

    Anandita Sharma

    Drawing on more than a decade of expertise in administration, Anandita Sharma currently serves as a content operations e

    Read More

    Get baby's diet chart, and growth tips

    Download Mylo today!
    Download Mylo App

    RECENTLY PUBLISHED ARTICLES

    our most recent articles

    foot top wavefoot down wave

    AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

    Awards

    Mylo wins Forbes D2C Disruptor award

    Awards

    Mylo wins The Economic Times Promising Brands 2022

    AS SEEN IN

    Mylo Logo

    Start Exploring

    wavewave
    About Us
    Mylo_logo

    At Mylo, we help young parents raise happy and healthy families with our innovative new-age solutions:

    • Mylo Care: Effective and science-backed personal care and wellness solutions for a joyful you.
    • Mylo Baby: Science-backed, gentle and effective personal care & hygiene range for your little one.
    • Mylo Community: Trusted and empathetic community of 10mn+ parents and experts.