There are many myths and false beliefs regarding breastfeeding. Milk that turns into water, the advice to drink a lot of milk to produce milk are two of them but there are many more.
Today we will focus on some myths related to the taste of breast milk.
What are these myths?
Some say that during breastfeeding, a woman should avoid eating certain foods because they modify the flavor of the milk. Garlic, onions, artichokes and asparagus are some of the foods that are not recommended.
It is true that these foods modify the taste of breast milk but this change does not have to upset the baby. It's more, it is suspected that variations in the taste of milk may facilitate the introduction of new foods as the baby is familiar with different flavors.
If our baby does not refuse to breastfeed after we have consumed any of these foods, there is no reason to stop doing it. On the other hand, if we notice changes in the baby's behavior when we consume a certain food, it is advisable to eliminate it from the diet temporarily.
Another myth in relation to the taste of breast milk is the one that states the woman who breastfeeds should not do physical exercise. There are cases of babies and children who refuse to breastfeed after their mother has done vigorous physical exercise, but this is not the norm. The change in taste of breast milk was attributed to an increase in lactic acid, although it has not been proven that this is the reason for rejection. It seems that the production of sweat can also affect the baby's taste due to its salty taste. A simple way to avoid this rejection is to breastfeed before exercising.
The last myth is related to a new pregnancy. It is true that pregnancy affects the taste and production of milk, but the baby or child does not have to reject the breast. Although we can still hear that you cannot breastfeed while pregnant, the evidence shows that the risk of miscarriage is minimal if it is a low-risk pregnancy. Therefore, pregnancy is not a reason for weaning. It should only be considered when the pregnancy is risky (multiple pregnancies, history of abortions or premature births).
In relation to pregnancy, it must be borne in mind that breastfeeding is not a reliable contraceptive method. If we want to avoid pregnancy, it is advisable to resort to other more effective methods.