What about spicy foods?

Myth: You have to avoid spicy foods if you are breastfeeding.

Fact: Not true! Most people can eat what they like, and the baby will get used to it and enjoy it too. Most babies can eat ordinary table foods when they start solids if you don’t give them too early, including spicy foods if they are on your family’s usual menu.

If you are used to eating spicy foods then there is no reason not to continue eating them. The only exception is that if your baby seems to have a reaction to something in your diet. Sometimes you do not have to cut out a food entirely. If you reduce the amount of any given food, then that might be all you need to do.

If you think something you are eating is affecting the baby adversely, then it might be good to try an “elimination diet” for a short period of time. You can cut out the food, then after a couple of weeks, try gradually introducing it back into your diet and see if a small amount agrees with the baby. Sometimes this works quite well and you don’t have to eliminate it permanently.

Also, I think sometimes when baby has digestive disturbances and poop that isn’t the usual mustardy consistancy (which is NORMAL!) then it could be a foremilk/hindmilk imbalance, which CAN be corrected, although you might want to see a lactation consultant if this issue persists. But as far as overall diet goes: in most cases, whatever you are used to eating will agree with your baby. S/he will also likely enjoy eating them when she starts eating solids, too. Make mealtime a fun, experimental time and chances are your child will enjoy trying new foods gradually, whatever YOUR family normally likes eating.