A major change in eating habits isn't required while breastfeeding. However, there are several considerations for a nursing mother. Do not over-consume in one food category or make sudden dietary changes. Remember that most food and beverage flavors often slightly change the taste of breast milk. Change in stool color, breathing pattern or skin coloration may indicate the baby is having an allergic reaction to food the mother has consumed. Use caution and slowly introduce new foods and beverages into your diet
Caffeine
Consume only one to two cups of caffeine a day, suggests Baby Center, a website devoted to children's care. Caffeine is found in coffee, sodas, teas and over-the-counter medications. Some types of chocolate also have small amounts of caffeine. A breast-fed baby may become fussy and unable to sleep if the mother is drinking high amounts of caffeine. Caffeine can also dehydrate the body. Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of water daily. Carry a water bottle around and refresh yourself throughout the day.
Alcohol
Drinking a glass of alcohol is OK when breastfeeding, but wait two hours per drink before breast feeding. For example, a woman who has had two drinks should wait four hours before feeding time. Try breastfeeding right before having a drink. Drinking more than one glass causes the alcohol to be absorbed into the breast milk. Pumping the breasts and discarding the milk is only required if the time has not yet elapsed and the breasts are full and engorged. Moderate or heavy consumption of alcohol should be avoided.
Fish
Limit the amount of fish you eat to avoid high levels of mercury. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency suggest nursing mothers to limit canned tuna or albacore to 6 oz. per week. The organizations also recommend limiting light tuna or other fish to 12 oz. per week. Snapper, swordfish, mackerel and shark should be avoided due to high levels of mercury.
General Foods to Avoid
According to Baby Center, common foods possibly related to colic are broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts and cow's milk. These foods commonly cause flatulence, even in adults. Keep track of what you eat and observe your baby's reaction. Each child is different. Some babies are not affected when their mother eats hot or spicy foods; others may not be able to tolerate it.
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