Carbonated beverage breastfeeding colic: What about it?
Introduction
Many breastfeeding women wonder if drinking sodas or sparkling water can lead to infant colic. This questioning reflects their concern to keep their breast milk free from any harmful substances, which is commendable. Knowing that the gas they contain hardly reaches the breast milk, one can therefore deduce that it is not the cause. However, the presence of additives requires particular attention; that’s why it’s recommended to consume these drinks less during breastfeeding. Let’s take a look at the fizzy snacks at the heart of moms’ concerns.
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Carbonated Drinks
Widely consumed around the world, carbonated drinks come in a multitude of varieties, ranging from sweet sodas to flavored sparkling waters. Despite their popularity, the question of their impact on breast milk and, by extension, on infant health, sparks lively discussions among healthcare professionals and breastfeeding mothers.
What is carbonated water?
It is mineral or spring water enriched with carbon dioxide (CO2), giving it its characteristic fizz. This CO2 can naturally occur in spring water or be added during bottling. Depending on their origin, carbonated waters may also contain minerals and salts.
What is the difference between natural and artificial carbonated water?
Natural Carbonated Water: This water comes from naturally carbonated underground sources enriched with CO2 and minerals.
Artificial Carbonated Water: The fizziness of this water results from the addition of carbon dioxide after the water is extracted, whether it comes from the tap or is mineral water. It is then flavored and supplemented with minerals through artificial processes.
Tips: Choose carbonated waters with no added sugar or artificial flavors. Read labels carefully to find those with the minimum additives. To enjoy the fizz and bubbles without compromise, alternate between carbonated and still water.
What's the link between carbonated drinks and infant colic?
Colic follows the "rule of three": a baby crying for more than 3 hours a day, more than 3 days a week, for more than 3 weeks. These intense cries typically start after birth and decrease around the age of 3 to 4 months. Signs of abdominal discomfort include loud crying, a red face, stiff body, clenched fists, and curled legs.
To soothe your little one, try babywearing (with a baby carrier or wrap), rocking, or a short walk. You can also practice gentle belly massage with circular motions.
The exact cause of colic is not fully understood, although several factors have been identified. It is known that some components of the foods consumed by the mother can be transferred into breast milk, thus disturbing the still fragile digestive system of the baby.
The gas contained in these beverages is not responsible for infant colic, as it remains primarily in the stomach and passes very little, if at all, into breast milk. However, added additives such as caffeine, sugar, and artificial sweeteners are elements that can impact the health of both the mother and the baby. For this reason, breastfeeding mothers are advised to consume them in moderation. As for energy drinks, they are not recommended during breastfeeding.
Do carbonated drinks have an influence on breast milk?
Natural sparkling water, without harmful substances for breast milk, is a safe option for breastfeeding women. However, attention should be paid to the sodium content of certain brands, which slightly promotes diuresis.
Sodas and carbonated beverages often contain artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame and sucralose, which sweeten without adding calories. This may seem ideal for those watching their weight, but the long-term consequences, especially for breastfed babies, raise questions. Additionally, caffeine, common in this type of beverage, can reach breast milk. It causes irritability and sleep disturbances in babies, especially those under six months old who eliminate it slowly and have a higher sensitivity to its stimulating effects.
| Category | Brands | Contents | Number of glasses per day |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flavored sparkling waters | San Pellegrino, Badoit, Perrier | No sugar, may contain artificial sweeteners | 1-2 |
| Classic sodas | Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Orangina | High sugar content, ~35-40g per can, caffeine ~20-40mg per can | Occasionally (a few times per week) |
| Diet or sugar-free sodas | Pepsi Max, Coca-Cola Zero, Diet Coke | No sugar, artificial sweeteners, caffeine ~20-40mg per can | 1-2 |
| Carbonated energy drinks | Red Bull, Monster Energy | High caffeine content ~80-160mg per can, may contain sugar and artificial sweeteners | Not recommended |
| Ginger sodas | Canada Dry, Schweppes | Variable sugar content, ~20-35g per can, low or no caffeine | 1 |
Healthy Alternatives to Carbonated Drinks
Still Water: Water remains the best option for proper hydration. It contains no calories, caffeine, or additives, making it the healthiest choice for both mom and baby.
Infused Waters: For those looking for something a bit more flavorful than plain water, there are infused waters with fresh fruits, vegetables, or herbs.
Herbal Teas: They are perfect for relaxing while staying hydrated. Also, feel free to try our Milky Daisy infusions with strawberry and apricot honey flavor!
Plant-Based Milk: Unsweetened almond, coconut, or oat milk, low in calories and caffeine-free.
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FAQ
This FAQ addresses common concerns of mothers regarding the effects of sodas on infant colic during breastfeeding. Feel free to visit specialized forums such as Leche League, Doctissimo, or Magicmaman to engage with other women who share the same concerns. You'll find a supportive community ready to offer advice and support.
Most components of carbonated drinks, except for caffeine, do not significantly pass into breast milk. However, moderate consumption is recommended.
There is no direct evidence linking the mother's consumption of carbonated drinks to baby colic. Nevertheless, some additives, like caffeine, may cause symptoms in some infants, often mistaken for colic.
Yes, you can drink natural sparkling water while breastfeeding. Just ensure it does not contain any additives or artificial sweeteners.
It is recommended to limit caffeine to less than 300 mg per day while breastfeeding, which is about two to three cups of coffee depending on its strength. This includes caffeine from all sources, including carbonated drinks.
Minimize the risk of colic by ensuring your baby burps properly after feeding, adopting a balanced diet, and limiting your consumption of fermentable foods and drinks that may cause irritability in your baby.
If you suspect carbonated drinks are affecting your baby, consider eliminating them from your diet for a trial period to observe any changes in their behavior. Consult a pediatrician for personalized advice and to ensure there are no other contributing factors to your baby's discomfort.
Conclusion
The key takeaway: carbonated drinks have no direct impact on infant colic. There is no prohibition on drinking sodas or sparkling waters during breastfeeding, as long as it is done in moderation; energy drinks, on the other hand, are not recommended. Conversely, natural sparkling water can be consumed freely! For breastfeeding mothers who prefer to avoid them, they have plenty of options to turn to equally delicious still drinks.
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