Why Cows Milk Matters:
I’m absolutely flabbergasted when some patients tell me they were told by a friend, GP, Paediatrician or family member to take out all dairy (cows milk) from their diet when breastfeeding to ensure the baby gets no allergy.
1. There is NO scientific evidence / research that can with actual fact support this argument.
2. Cows milk have been shown to do the exact opposite in most cases (however it is not a cure to prevent allergy if predispositioned etc)
In a study done by a Sweden University, 508 moms were asked to drink milk daily throughout pregnancy and in the first year of life. Their breastmilk and blood were carefully evaluated for biomarkers (2 specific fatty acids from the cows milk found in breastmilk) and they recorded all their eating habits at 34 weeks, 1 month postpartum and at 12 months.
It was found that only 6.5% of infants at 1 had developed eczema and asthma and 7.7% had a dairy allergy ALL of which belonged to the mothers that had a low dairy intake.
There was a CLEAR CONNECTION between the mothers that drank more cows milk and their healthy infants in relation to the moms that drank less milk and had children with allergies.
3. By drinking cows milk you are stimulating the immune system necessary to develop a tolerance for different foods.
4. Calcium gets depleted by breastfeeding and therefore dairy can be a great source of this! Aim for 4 servings a day (50g of cheese, 1 – 2cups of milk, and a cup of yogurt) or if allergic to dairy, nuts, green leafy vegetables and tofu.
5. A breastfeeding mom needs more energy – about an additional 330-500kcals within their diet to assist with breastmilk production. Milk is a great source of energy! Use it!
6. Milk promotes healthy bone development and strength for both you and your child!
7. Interestingly, milk has been associated with weight maintenance or weight loss! With its high protein content and the conjugated linoleneic acid it promotes fat breakdown and inhibits fat production! The high calcium levels assist with a decrease risk of developing obesity!
Dearest Breastfeeding mom…
If you or your child doesn’t have a confirmed allergy, then please include Cows milk in your diet!
Breastmilk for baby, cows milk for mommy