From the Guidelines
Beer does not help with breastfeeding and its consumption is generally not recommended for breastfeeding mothers. The idea that beer increases milk production is a myth, and in reality, alcohol can inhibit milk production by decreasing the milk ejection reflex, which can reduce the amount of milk the baby receives 1. When a breastfeeding mother consumes alcohol, it passes into her breast milk at concentrations similar to those in her bloodstream, and it takes time for her body to clear it, approximately 2-3 hours per standard drink. According to the Pediatrics study 1, moderate alcohol consumption by a breastfeeding mother (up to 1 standard drink per day) is not known to be harmful to the infant, especially if the mother waits at least 2 hours after a single drink before nursing or expressing milk to be fed to the infant. However, it's essential to prioritize the baby's health and minimize alcohol exposure. If a breastfeeding mother chooses to drink alcohol occasionally, she should wait at least 2-3 hours per standard drink before breastfeeding again.
Some key points to consider:
- Alcohol consumption can disrupt sleep patterns, decrease milk intake, and potentially cause developmental issues in babies 1.
- Better options to support milk supply include staying well-hydrated with water, eating a balanced diet, nursing frequently, and consulting with a lactation consultant.
- The American Cancer Society guidelines 1 recommend limiting alcohol intake to no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink a day for women, but this does not directly apply to breastfeeding mothers, who should prioritize their baby's health and safety above all.
In terms of minimizing risks, it is crucial for breastfeeding mothers to be aware of the potential effects of alcohol on their baby's health and take steps to reduce exposure. This includes waiting at least 2-3 hours per standard drink before breastfeeding again and considering alternative methods to support milk supply. By prioritizing the baby's health and safety, breastfeeding mothers can make informed decisions about their alcohol consumption and ensure the best possible outcomes for their child.
From the Research
Breastfeeding and Beer Consumption
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to suggest that beer helps with breastfeeding 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies focus on the benefits of breastfeeding, ways to support breastfeeding, and medications that can increase milk production, such as domperidone and metoclopramide 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- None of the studies mention the consumption of beer as a factor that affects breastfeeding or milk production.
Medications for Increasing Milk Production
- Domperidone has been shown to increase milk production in mothers with insufficient milk supply 3, 5, 6.
- Metoclopramide has also been used to increase milk production, but the evidence is less consistent 3, 6.
- The studies suggest that domperidone may be a more effective medication for increasing milk production, especially in mothers of preterm infants 5, 6.
Breastfeeding Recommendations
- The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for approximately 6 months after birth, and continued breastfeeding for 2 years or beyond 2, 4.
- The World Health Organization also recommends exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, and continued breastfeeding for up to 2 years or beyond 2, 4.
- Breastfeeding has numerous benefits for both mothers and infants, including decreased risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and type 2 diabetes mellitus, as well as improved cognitive development and reduced risk of atopic dermatitis and gastroenteritis in infants 2, 4.