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Approfondimenti scientifici

Between myths and reality: what you need to know about breastfeeding

AUTORE: Dr. Alexandra Semjonova & Prof. Rosaria Taverna
FOCUS: Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a crucial moment for a newborn’s health and, at the same time, requires attention to the mother’s lifestyle. The nutritional needs of a breastfeeding woman have long been studied in depth. In the absence of particular clinical conditions, it is sufficient to follow a balanced and complete diet, consuming food and drinks in adequate quantity and quality to ensure personal well-being and sufficient energy to care for the baby.

There is no need to include specific foods or eliminate others during this period. Fat reserves accumulated during pregnancy, along with the daily caloric intake, are generally sufficient to sustain milk production. On average, a breastfeeding woman requires about 500 additional kilocalories per day compared to a non-breastfeeding woman, in order to produce the 750 to 1,000 ml of milk needed daily.

Only in cases of severe malnutrition can milk production be compromised. In situations of mild caloric restriction, the maternal body draws on its reserves, resulting at most in a slight reduction in milk quantity or fat content. Regarding fluid intake, drinking in excess does not increase milk production. It is sufficient to hydrate based on thirst or if the urine becomes concentrated.

Clarifications and Truths About Breastfeeding

“You have to eat for two during breastfeeding”

| False: Milk production requires only a modest caloric increase, easily achieved with a small extra portion of food.

“Some foods like garlic, onion, cabbage, and broccoli must be avoided”

| False: There are no forbidden foods. The baby is already exposed to flavors and aromas in utero and benefits from the mother’s dietary variety, which enriches the taste of milk. A vegetarian diet is compatible with breastfeeding, while a vegan diet requires vitamin B12 supplementation.

“Beer boosts milk production”

| False: There is no scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of any drink in increasing milk production. Milk production depends mainly on a proper latch and effective sucking.

“One glass of wine is not harmful”

| True: Occasional consumption of one glass of wine with meals is acceptable, provided breastfeeding does not occur immediately afterward.

“Coffee and tea must be avoided”

| False: They do not need to be eliminated as long as consumption is moderate (up to three small cups of coffee per day). High doses (more than seven to eight cups) may cause irritability in the infant.

“Smoking is prohibited”

| True: Breastfeeding is an opportunity to quit smoking. Passive and third-hand smoke—i.e., residue on clothes, skin, and hair—is harmful to the baby. Both parents should strive to maintain a smoke-free home. However, smoking is not an absolute contraindication to breastfeeding.

“You must not breastfeed during menstruation”

| False: The return of the menstrual cycle is usually delayed by breastfeeding. A slight drop in milk supply may occur just before menstruation but does not justify stopping breastfeeding.

“You should stop breastfeeding if you have a fever or the flu”

| False:  In case of fever or mild infections like a cold or diarrhea, breastfeeding can continue. Compatible antipyretics include paracetamol and ibuprofen, while aspirin is not recommended.

“Physical activity should be avoided while breastfeeding”

| False: Physical activity is not only allowed but encouraged, as it promotes both physical and mental well-being for the mother.

“Breastfeeding weakens the body and damages teeth”

| False: Proper oral hygiene prevents any negative impact on teeth. Breastfeeding does not significantly deplete nutrients if the diet is balanced.

“Breastfeeding causes hair loss”

| True: This is a physiological phenomenon. High estrogen levels during pregnancy slow down natural hair shedding. After childbirth, hormonal levels return to normal, leading to temporary and intense hair loss, which is not a cause for concern.

“Myopia is a contraindication for breastfeeding”

| False: This is a myth with no scientific basis. There are no contraindications for breastfeeding in women with myopia.

Adopting a healthy and informed lifestyle during breastfeeding is essential for both maternal and infant health. A balanced diet, proper hydration, moderate physical activity, and eliminating harmful habits form the foundation for experiencing this important phase with peace of mind and awareness. Being informed and overcoming common myths helps mothers embrace breastfeeding naturally and positively, recognizing its irreplaceable role in a newborn’s development.