Can Breastfeeding Mothers Drink Soda? Risks and Important Facts to Know

In the middle of a tiring breastfeeding routine, sometimes you feel thirsty and crave something sweet and refreshing. A glass of cold soda can seem tempting, especially during hot weather or after a long night of nursing your baby.

But then comes the important question: can breastfeeding mothers drink soda? Is soda safe for you and your baby? At first glance, it may seem harmless, but the ingredients inside can have effects that many mothers are not aware of — on both the body and the quality of breast milk.

Ingredients in Soda You Should Know

While soda feels refreshing, it actually contains several ingredients that can negatively affect the health of both you and your baby. Below are some of the main components found in soda that you should pay attention to:

1. High Sugar Content

A 330 ml can of soda can contain more than 30 grams of sugar — exceeding the daily limit recommended by the American Heart Association (AHA) for women. Consuming too much sugar increases the risk of obesity, diabetes, and tooth decay.

Moreover, studies have found that fructose, a type of sugar commonly used in soda, can pass into breast milk. Babies who are sensitive to this added sugar may experience digestive issues or become fussier after breastfeeding.

2. Caffeine

Although the caffeine level in soda is lower than in coffee, it can still affect your baby’s nervous system. Even a small amount of caffeine passed through breast milk can cause babies to become restless, have trouble sleeping, or seem more irritable.

3. Artificial Sweeteners and Additives

Many sodas contain artificial sweeteners like aspartame or sucralose, along with preservatives and colorants such as sodium benzoate. These additives can disrupt fluid balance and, when consumed in excess, may negatively affect digestion.

Effects of Drinking Soda on Breastfeeding Mothers and Babies

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If you’re still wondering can breastfeeding mothers drink soda, the answer is that it’s not completely forbidden, but it’s strongly discouraged for regular consumption. Here are some possible effects:

1. Causes Dehydration

Soda is not a substitute for water. Its high sugar and caffeine content can actually cause your body to lose fluids faster, making you feel thirstier. Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining breast milk production.

2. Affects Breast Milk Quality

While soda does not directly change the taste or color of breast milk, its sugar content can interfere with your body’s nutrient balance. As a result, breast milk quality may decrease because your body lacks essential minerals and fluids.

3. Can Make Babies Fussy or Sleep-Deprived

If you frequently drink caffeinated soda, some of that caffeine may pass into your breast milk. Although the amount is small, sensitive babies can experience sleep disturbances or become more irritable.

4. Long-Term Effects on Mothers

Excessive soda consumption can disrupt metabolism, lower energy levels, and increase the risk of diabetes or weight gain. A tired, less energetic body can affect both mood and the ability to breastfeed effectively.

Healthy Drink Alternatives to Replace Soda for Breastfeeding Mothers

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Staying hydrated is essential for every new mother, especially when breastfeeding. If you want to enjoy a refreshing drink without harming your body or breast milk, here are some healthier options:

• Water: The best choice for hydration and supporting smooth milk production. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends about 16 glasses of water per day for breastfeeding mothers.

• Infused Water: Mix water with slices of lemon, cucumber, or mint leaves for a naturally refreshing flavor without added sugar.

• Fresh Fruit Juice: Choose fruits like oranges, apples, watermelon, strawberries, or papaya without extra sugar. They’re refreshing and full of vitamins.

• Low-Fat Milk or Soy Milk: Both options keep you full and help meet calcium needs during breastfeeding.

What You Drink Shapes the Quality of Your Breast Milk

What you drink greatly affects both breast milk production and quality. If your body is dehydrated or overloaded with sugary beverages, the lactation process can be disrupted.

Beyond food and drink, how you store your breast milk also determines its nutritional quality. Many mothers focus on diet but overlook proper storage, which can reduce the milk’s nutrient content.

Read also: How Long Can Breast Milk Be Stored Ideally?

Hegen: A Trusted Partner for Protecting Breast Milk Quality

Source: Hegen

Maintaining hydration alone is not enough. The quality of your breast milk also depends on how it’s stored. With advanced features, Hegen products are designed to help preserve the purity of your breast milk while making the breastfeeding journey more comfortable.

Hegen Breast Pumps and BPA-Free PPSU multi-purpose bottles are specially crafted to keep breast milk safe and hygienic. Here are their key advantages:

• BPA-Free and Non-Toxic Materials to prevent harmful chemical contamination.

• Air-Tight Storage System to keep breast milk fresh and nutrient-rich during storage.

• Modular ESF System (Express – Store – Feed) allowing you to pump, store, and feed from the same container without transferring milk.

• Breast-Like Teat Design that mimics a mother’s breast, helping babies adapt easily without nipple confusion.

• Anti-Colic Vent to prevent air intake, reducing bloating and discomfort for the baby.

Besides maintaining hydration for optimal milk supply, make sure you also store and serve breast milk correctly. With Hegen, every drop of nutrient-rich milk stays safe, hygienic, and ready whenever your baby needs it.

Read also: Babies Get Fussy While Breastfeeding? Here Are 9 Common Causes and How to Overcome Them

Healthy Hydration for Quality Breast Milk

So, can breastfeeding mothers drink soda? The best choice is to limit or avoid it. While soda may taste refreshing, its sugar, caffeine, and chemical ingredients can negatively affect both mother and baby if consumed too often.

Choose natural, healthier drinks to stay refreshed, energized, and support abundant breast milk production. And to keep your breast milk safe and hygienic, use the Hegen Breast Pump and multi-purpose BPA-Free PPSU bottles with the ESF (Express – Store – Feed) system.

With Hegen, you can ensure every drop of breast milk is served in the best condition for your little one. Because breastfeeding is not just about feeding — it’s about giving love and the best nutrition in the safest and most practical way.

Reference:

Baby Center. Could this tiny habit while breastfeeding be the reason your baby is super gassy? https://www.babycenter.com/baby/breastfeeding/soda-while-breastfeeding_41003126