No scientific studies indicate that gassy foods eaten by breastfeeding mothers cause discomfort, bloating or gas in their babies. Some experts agree, however, that if a food bothers the mom, it may also bother the baby. If your baby cries or is repeatedly gassy after you eat a particular food and nurse your baby, you may want to eliminate the potentially offending food for a while to see if your baby's gassiness subsides. Some breastfed babies may experience few, if any, episodes of bloating, gas or serious discomfort.
Dairy Products
Doctors usually suggest eliminating cow's milk products from your diet for a while if your baby becomes excessively gassy or fussy after breastfeeding. Lactose intolerance can appear quite early in a baby, and you might be passing through the lactose that's making your baby uncomfortable. Avoid foods such as milk, cream, butter, sour cream, cheese and milk powders for a few weeks and observe your baby's behavior. Gradually reintroduce the foods, one at a time, to see if your baby is reacting to all dairy or just a certain type of food.
High-Fiber Foods
Some high-fiber foods, especially those in the brassica family, naturally produce gas in the human body as a way of keeping the intestinal tract and colon active and healthy. Too much of a good thing could be bothering your baby. Avoid some of these common gas producers if your baby fusses after you eat them: cabbage, broccoli and Brussels sprouts. Other culprits may include rhubarb, cucumbers and prunes. Once you've ruled out those common gas producers, try substituting fruit for your vegetables for a week to see if that helps your baby improve.
Carbonated Drinks
Carbonated beverages are so common in today's culture that they are sometimes overlooked as gas-producing parts of a daily diet. Colas often contain caffeine as well as carbonation, neither of which is necessary or healthful for your baby. Other carbonated drinks, even those that are caffeine-free, could be a source of your baby's discomfort if you're breastfeeding. Replace carbonated drinks with water and juices.
