Although there is not a lot of research on the matter, most experts agree that it is safe to eat bean sprouts while breastfeeding. Bean sprouts are a good source of protein, vitamin C, and other nutrients, and they are low in calories. Additionally, they are unlikely to cause any adverse effects in breastfeeding infants.
Yes, Bean sprouts are a great choice for a breastfeeding mom to eat! They’re packed with vitamins, minerals and fiber, and they’re perfectly safe to eat when cooked properly. However, you should avoid eating raw sprouts, as they can cause food poisoning. So if you’re looking for a healthy and safe snack to eat while breastfeeding, bean sprouts are a great option!
The reasons why someone would want to know this is:
- Health benefits that might be good for both the mother and the baby.
- Health concerns could affect your breastmilk or make it hard for your baby to drink the breastmilk because of side effects like too much gas or a change in digestion.
- A child can get an allergic reaction
What are the health benefits of eating sprouts while breastfeeding?
Just like any other food like fruits, they are relatively safe to eat. They are highly nutritious foods and a good source of vitamins A, C, and K.
They also contain some minerals like potassium, magnesium, and zinc. All of these nutrients are beneficial for both the mother and the baby.
Vitamin A can help with night blindness, dry eyes, and other eye problems. Vitamin C helps the body to heal and also boosts the immune system. Zinc is important for growth and development in babies and young children.
They also have some fiber in them. This can help with constipation, which is a common problem during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
What are the health concerns with eating mung bean sprouts for breastfeeding moms?
They can be healthy food for a breastfeeding mother. But some beans sprouts might have risks. There are benefits and it’s important to know what they are, so you can make your own decision about beans sprouts while breastfeeding.
Sprout seeds like other fresh produce that is usually consumed either raw or lightly cooked carries a risk of foodborne illness, especially if it is contaminated with bacteria including salmonella, listeria and E. coli. The moist conditions required to grow sprouts make it conducive for these bacteria to grow rapidly. Therefore, raw sprouts are other foods to avoid while breastfeeding because they pose a high risk of food poisoning.
Although it has not been proved that bacteria can pass through breastmilk, it is always recommended to err on the side of caution. If you want to eat sprouts, make sure to cook them properly. A raw bean sprout is dangerous.
They are also one of the foods you want to avoid if you are breastfeeding gassy babies. Other gas-inducing foods to avoid include broccoli, artichokes, brussels sprouts and asparagus.
How many sprouts can I eat when breastfeeding?
A breastfeeding mom can eat bean sprouts at least 30gm a day. However, you should always talk to your doctor about foods you can and can’t eat especially if you have dietary restrictions.
Do sprouts affect a mom’s milk?
Although they are not known to affect breast milk production, they are a good source of protein.
Protein is required for the production of breastmilk, which is then passed from the mother to the baby to nourish and support growth.
As a result, breast feeding women require an extra 25 grams of protein every day. It is important to consume a variety of protein-rich foods on a daily basis to ensure a continuous supply of breast milk.
Can a baby be allergic to sprouts?
Yes, it is possible for a breastfed baby to be allergic to sprouts. Six allergenic proteins can be found in them. The majority of these are related to allergies to legumes and nuts.
If your breastfed babies are showing any signs of an allergic reaction after you have eaten sprouts, contact a medical professional immediately. Signs of an allergic reaction include:
- rashes and hives
- stomach discomfort
- swelling and itchiness
- breathing difficulties
- diarrhea
Take Away
Bean sprouts are healthy food for breastfeeding mothers. They are perfectly safe to eat but they are not fine when consumed raw.
They are a good source of vitamins, minerals and fiber. They also have some health concerns which could affect your breastmilk or make it hard for your baby to drink breastmilk because of side effects like too much gas or a change in digestion.
If you want to eat them, make sure to cook them properly. A breastfeeding mom can eat at least 30gm of a day.
Never eat raw sprouts and even lightly cooked sprouts. They are foods to avoid while breastfeeding because they pose a high risk of food poisoning.
This article was written by Sandra Baker – full time writer and the mother of four amazing kids (including twins!)
She’s also a breastfeeding counselor and has spent years helping new parents learn how to care for their children. When she’s not writing or caring for her children, Sandra likes to spend time reading and taking walks with her husband.
