Breastfeeding and Chocolate

Can I eat chocolate while breastfeeding?

If breastfeeding and chocolate are on your list of favorite things, I have some good news! You can continue to eat chocolate as long as you eat it in moderation and do not see any side effects in your baby.

Most people are worried about the caffeine in chocolate, not the sugar. If you are going to eat chocolate, it is best not to consume too many other caffeinated products such as coffee, tea, or soft drinks.

Chocolate also contains Theobromine, which has a similar effect to caffeine. Some mothers find that they can eat as much chocolate as they want without it affecting their babies. Theobromine has also been found to increase a mother's breast milk supply.

Some Good News for Chocolate Lovers

Theobromine is the primary substance that causes severe symptoms, especially gas in babies. White chocolate contains tiny amounts of Theobromine, reducing the risk of it affecting your baby. So, if you have found that chocolate is a no-no for your baby, maybe you should try white chocolate and see if your baby still reacts the same way. (That's if you like white chocolate, of course)

My fellow chocolate lovers, as long as your baby does not mind white chocolate breast milk, it’s worth the try!

When you Need to Decrease your Chocolate Intake…

Unfortunately, chocolate and nursing don’t always go hand in hand…

• Your baby becomes more active and alert than usual.
• Your baby becomes fussy, restless, and struggles to sleep.
• Your baby seems to have runnier stools and gas pain.
• Diarrhea or green stools.
• Your baby refuses to nurse.
• Rash around the anus.
• Vomiting.
  

If you discover that your baby has an allergic reaction or any of the symptoms mentioned above, you must stop eating chocolate or decrease the amount consumed. The symptoms should disappear within the first few days, but the cravings will last forever. ;-)

There are usually no weird symptoms, and most mothers can enjoy chocolate and caffeine in moderation while breastfeeding.

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A Chocolate Alternative

One healthy chocolate alternative that tastes like chocolate but contains no caffeine is carob. Carob is a plant native to the Mediterranean region that has a sweet, chocolate-like flavor. It is often used as a caffeine-free alternative to chocolate in recipes.

Here is a recipe for homemade carob fudge:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened carob powder
• 1 cup coconut oil
• 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, melt the coconut oil over low heat.
2. Stir in the carob powder, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into a square or rectangular baking dish lined with parchment paper.
4. Place the dish in the refrigerator to set for at least an hour.
5. Once set, cut the fudge into small squares and enjoy!

Vegan & Gluten-free
Oatmeal and Chocolate Chip Lactation Cookies

Is Drinking Chocolate Good for Breastfeeding Mothers?

Drinking chocolate contains high levels of sugar and fat. Some health organizations, such as WHO and the American Dietetic Association, recommend that breastfeeding mothers limit their intake of added sugar. Additionally, drinking chocolate contains a small amount of caffeine. As with everything in life, moderation is key. A healthier option would be raw cacao powder, which can be enjoyed with stevia or another natural sweetener.