During pregnancy and lactation, a woman takes extra steps to ensure that she is supplying her baby with enough nutrients for his growth and development, but eating certain foods, such as eggs, which are usually considered very nutritious and safe, can prove to be detrimental for the baby’s health. Eggs are a versatile food and very healthy, but if you are in your nursing stage, you might want to think twice before including them in your diet. Read on to find out if can eat eggs while breastfeeding.
Eggs, as we all know, are a great source of protein, and you can eat them while nursing your baby. You can consume them 3 or 4 times a week. You can eat eggs, but you should consume cooked eggs alone. Eating raw eggs is not recommended while breastfeeding. Furthermore, in your nursing phase, you must make sure that your daily calorie intake is increased by 500 to meet your baby’s nutrient requirements, and these calories should come from a wholesome diet.
Consuming eggs while nursing your baby is a healthy option as eggs contain loads of health benefits which are mentioned below:
It is not advisable to consume raw eggs while breastfeeding or even otherwise. Consumption of raw eggs or even undercooked eggs can lead to an increased risk of developing salmonella, which causes fever, diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and nausea. Raw eggs are used in the preparation of homemade sauce, salad dressings, tiramisu, frostings, etc. If unfortunately, you are affected with salmonella, it will remain in your intestine and won’t enter your breast milk. But it can lead to dehydration, which is also not good while breastfeeding, as dehydration will reduce the supply of milk in your body.
While it is considered safe to consume eggs while nursing your baby, you need to consider the following points:
If you are in your nursing phase, you can consume cooked eggs (if your baby doesn’t have an allergy, of course). But it is suggested that you consult a doctor with regards to including them in your diet. Have a healthy diet during breastfeeding and your baby will be fine!