Do you often wake up hungry in the early hours while breastfeeding? Don’t worry, this is a universal thing that women experience.

The CDC notes that breastfeeding mothers need extra calories to meet their nutritional needs. While a woman typically requires about 2,000 kcal per day when not pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s recommended to add roughly 330-400 kcal per day during breastfeeding.

Can You Eat Spicy Food?

Eating spicy foods can stimulate appetite and raise your mood. Still, you may have heard they’re off-limits if you are currently breastfeeding.

One common myth says that if a breastfeeding mother eats spicy food, a baby’s stool will show “chili seed–like” bits. In reality, as breast milk is digested, a baby’s stools often become looser, mustard-yellow, and may contain seed-like flecks.

Another myth claims eating spicy food makes babies cry frequently and be fussier. In fact, there isn’t enough evidence that a mother’s diet directly causes fussines, except if the baby drinks milk when they have a confirmed allergy to dairy products.

Healthline reports that current research doesn’t support avoiding spicy foods during pregnancy or breastfeeding solely for the baby’s sake. However, if you have ulcers or tend to get stomach upset after spicy meals, consider whether spicy foods are right for you while breastfeeding.

Benefits of Eating Spicy Foods for Breastfeeding Women

There are actually some health benefits in eating spicy food for breastfeeding women, as we can see below:

• Increases Breast Milk Intake

Some babies enjoy strong, aromatic flavors, including when you’ve eaten spicy dishes. Verywell Health reports that certain infants may nurse longer when their mothers consume flavorful foods such as garlic or spicy meals.

• Broadens Flavor Exposure

Spicy or aromatic foods can make babies more open to a range of tastes. Studies suggest that longer breastfeeding is linked to greater acceptance of diverse foods later on.

• More Variety for Mom’s Menu

Eating the same foods everyday can get boring, even as you aim to meet your increased calorie needs. Adding spicy dishes to your diet can boost appetite. Meeting your calorie needs while breastfeeding provides the energy and strength to nurse and care for your baby.

Skipping spicy foods entirely may dampen appetite and reduce overall nutrition. You don’t need to worry about enjoying spicy meals while breastfeeding. Do remember that some foods can trigger allergies in babies; if you notice a reaction, note the specific foods and consult your pediatrician.

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