Safe Foods and Medications While Breastfeeding

August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month, a time to celebrate and support breastfeeding moms across the country. At Women’s Health Associates, we know that new and experienced mothers alike have questions about what’s safe to eat and which medications can be taken while nursing. The good news? Most women can enjoy a healthy, well-rounded diet and safely treat common conditions with guidance from their healthcare provider.

“Whether you’re a first-time mom or navigating breastfeeding after multiple pregnancies, knowing which foods and medications are safe is essential for both your health and your baby’s development,” states Dr. Reagan Wittek, MD.

Safe Foods While Breastfeeding

Much like your diet during pregnancy, eating well while breastfeeding is about nourishing both you and your baby. Your body needs extra calories, nutrients, and hydration to produce milk and recover from childbirth. A balanced, nutrient-dense diet can boost your energy, support milk production, and aid postpartum healing.

Here are some of the most beneficial food groups to include in your breastfeeding diet:

Whole Foods & Nutrient-Dense Options

• Fruits and Vegetables
  Loaded with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, fruits and veggies help support your immune system and overall health. Aim for a variety of colors to get a broad range of nutrients.
  
  
• Whole Grains
  Oats, quinoa, brown rice, and whole wheat bread provide lasting energy and fiber to keep your digestion regular—something many new moms appreciate.
  
  
• Lean Proteins
  Eggs, chicken, beans, lentils, and tofu help with muscle repair and tissue healing after childbirth. Protein also plays a role in keeping you full and fueled throughout the day.
  
  
• Healthy Fats
  Avocados, nuts, seeds, olive oil, and omega-3-rich fish like salmon support brain development in your baby and promote hormone balance in your body.
  
  

Don’t worry about sticking to a “perfect” diet—variety and moderation are key. If you’re concerned about how your food choices may affect your baby (e.g., if they seem fussy or gassy), it’s worth tracking meals and speaking with a healthcare provider.

What About Caffeine?

Good news for coffee lovers, moderate caffeine intake is generally safe while breastfeeding. Most experts recommend keeping caffeine consumption below 300 mg per day, which equals about 2–3 cups of coffee.

While only a small amount of caffeine passes into breast milk, newborns metabolize it more slowly, so it’s best to monitor your baby for signs of sensitivity, such as restlessness or trouble sleeping.

Also, keep in mind that caffeine isn’t just in coffee—tea, soft drinks, energy drinks, and even chocolate can contribute to your daily intake.

Alcohol: Proceed with Caution

It’s a common question for new moms: “Can I have a glass of wine while breastfeeding?” The short answer is yes—in moderation, alcohol can be consumed while breastfeeding with proper timing and precautions.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that occasional alcohol intake—one standard drink or less per day—is not known to be harmful to the baby, especially if nursing occurs at least two hours after consuming alcohol. 

Since alcohol peaks in your bloodstream, and breast milk, about 30 to 60 minutes after consumption (or up to 90 minutes if taken with food), it’s best to plan ahead. Breastfeeding immediately after drinking can expose your baby to alcohol.

Here are a few tips to drink responsibly while nursing:

• Time it right: Wait at least 2 hours after one drink before breastfeeding.
  
  
• Pump ahead: If you know you’ll be drinking, consider pumping and storing milk beforehand.
  
  
• “Pumping and dumping” isn't necessary unless you're uncomfortably engorged or need to relieve pressure—it's time, not pumping, that clears alcohol from your milk.
  
  
• Watch for effects: If you're feeling tipsy or impaired, it’s best to wait longer before nursing or use stored milk.
  
  

Important Note: Heavy or frequent alcohol consumption is not recommended while breastfeeding, as it can negatively impact milk production, infant development, and sleep patterns.

Medications and Breastfeeding: What’s Safe?

Many over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications are safe to use while breastfeeding, but it’s crucial to check with your healthcare provider before taking anything new. Below are general guidelines for common medication categories:

Common Medications That Are Usually Safe

• Pain relief: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) are typically considered safe.
  
  
• Allergy medications: Loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec) are non-drowsy antihistamines that may decrease milk supply.  Use after supply is established, and only if needed.
  
  
• Antibiotics: Many antibiotics are compatible with breastfeeding, but some may not be.
  
  

Medications to Use with Caution or Avoid

• Certain decongestants (like pseudoephedrine) may reduce milk supply.
  
  
• Adult Aspirin (versus Baby Aspirin) is generally not recommended due to risk of Reye’s syndrome.
• Some antidepressants and anxiety medications may be safe, but need individualized review.
  
  

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the LactMed Database from the U.S. National Library of Medicine are two of the best resources for current and evidence-based information on medication safety during lactation.

Breastfeeding and Pregnancy: Dual Considerations

Yes, it’s possible and often safe to breastfeed while pregnant, but it does place extra demands on your body. “You’re nourishing both your growing baby and your breastfeeding child, which means your nutritional and energy needs increase,” explains Dr. Reagan Wittek, MD.

To support your health and both little ones, be sure to:

• Stay well-hydrated throughout the day
  
  
• Continue taking prenatal vitamins rich in iron, calcium, and folate
  
  
• Get adequate rest and listen to your body’s signals
  
  
• Consult your healthcare provider regularly for personalized guidance
  
  

Every pregnancy and breastfeeding experience is unique. Your healthcare provider can help ensure that your body has everything it needs to support both your baby and your pregnancy.

Lean on Your Healthcare Provider

At Women’s Health Associates, we’re proud to support women through every stage of motherhood—from pregnancy and breastfeeding to postpartum care and beyond. Whether you’re navigating what’s safe to eat, which medications to take, or how to care for yourself while nursing or expecting, our expert team is here to help you make confident, informed decisions.

To schedule an appointment or speak with one of our experienced providers, call us at 913-677-3113. With two convenient locations in Overland Park and Leawood, Women’s Health Associates is your trusted partner for comprehensive women’s health care in the Kansas City area.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.