Can I Drink Soy Milk While Breastfeeding?
Although Soy is one of the best protein sources for nursing mothers (if consumed in moderate amounts), Soy milk shouldn’t be on your list of grocery items.
Many alternatives to soy milk are healthy for you to select from.
There are probably positive reasons to drink soy milk, or you should not. It’s up to you.
Whatever you decide to do, it’s an important issue due to the potential dangers and advantages of drinking products containing soya when breastfeeding.
After reading this article about the potential dangers and advantages of drinking soy milk during breastfeeding, you can make an educated choice on whether it’s worth drinking the same beverages in the future.
Protein Needs for Breastfeeding
According to Ohio State University, nursing mothers need about 70 grams of protein each day.
This number includes the protein they require to keep their bodies working properly and the protein supplement essential to lactation.
Furthermore, breastfed infants need proteins from their mothers’ milk to develop.
Although obtaining this amount of protein isn’t as tricky as it sounds, however, restricting women’s diets might require an extra helping hand to reach their daily goals.
This includes vegans, vegetarians, and women who don’t like high-protein food items.
Also, check: Can I Drink Root Beer While Breastfeeding?
Soy Protein
Soy protein is a protein found in plants that many people use as a substitute for meat because of its numerous health advantages.
Soy protein is available in soybeans and products like tofu or soy protein supplements to add to food or drinks.
These amino acids are the fundamental components of protein, and the essential ones are the ones that our bodies don’t make naturally.
Additionally, protein sources from Soy are typically packed with other nutrients beneficial for mothers-to-be, including iron, calcium, and fiber.
Related: How to Gain Weight While Breastfeeding?
The benefits of drinking soy milk when nursing
There are many advantages to drinking soy milk, particularly for moms who nurse longer than usual.
The most crucial objective of breastfeeding is to create an enduring and strong bond with your infant.
An increased bond can provide both of you with a safeguard against numerous illnesses, such as influenza, colds, and even allergies.
The only issue is that a few people are allergic to cow’s milk proteins (a typical protein found in milk), while others aren’t necessarily worried about it.
This is why Soy was designed to provide an alternative source of high-quality protein for babies fed breastmilk.
In addition to the benefits of soy consumption while pregnant, eating soy protein during breastfeeding has some advantages.
In fact, by taking in Soy throughout the day, you and your baby are healthier and more secure.
It’s also important to understand that many food items made with Soy (such as tempeh and tofu) are among the most frequently used food allergens in the US.
While there are some advantages of breastfeeding with Soy, there are risks and dangers.
Read More: Is It Safe for a Woman to Take Emergen C while Breastfeeding?
Zinc deficiency because of soy milk
Soybean is a source of phytic acid that prevents minerals like iron and zinc from being absorbed. This can cause osteoporosis, anemia, and even cancer.
Therefore, it is recommended to avoid drinking soymilk if you wish to feed your child.
Read More: Can I Eat Nutella While Breastfeeding?
The dangers of drinking soymilk while nursing
Some hazards and risks can be triggered by eating soy products during nursing. Make sure you are aware of these dangers before making your choice.
Soy and Allergies
Soy might not be suitable for breastfeeding mothers because certain infants are allergic to Soy.
According to Kellymom.com, an online resource for breastfeeding, Soy is one of the most common allergies for infants.
For most women who consume Soy frequently, there’s not much cause to worry; it’s uncommon for infants to be allergic to something in their mother’s milk.
But, if your child is allergic to soy, it is possible that he will be more agitated when you feed him, or he could develop a sizeable itchy rash.
Diarrhea and vomiting are typical symptoms of food allergies in breastfed infants.
Babies who manifest signs of allergic reactions to Soy in their milk may require a different source for their protein until they’re finished nursing.
Read More: Can I Eat Pizza While Breastfeeding?
The Dark Side of Soy Isoflavones
The study finds that infants fed Soy consume 6.25 mg of isoflavones from Soy for every kilogram of body mass daily, more than ten times the amount of soy isoflavones found to cause health problems in adults.
Soy isoflavones have been proven to cause adults a low level of consumption. Consequently, babies who consume 10 times as much have a greater chance of suffering from problems.
Related: How To Dress for Breastfeeding in Winter?
What do you require to be aware of regarding the soy formula?
The protein isolates of Soy used in the soy formula aren’t considered safe for human consumption by the FDA.
The ingredient is a source of phytochemicals that can harm babies and lead to birth and allergies, immune issues, and other health issues.
Soy: Is your healthy hormone balance in danger?
Soy is a source of phytoestrogens, which could interfere with your healthy hormone balance.
We know that Soy is an unpopular ingredient to include in our diet. It’s a rich source of phytoestrogens that can cause infertility and increase the risk of breast cancer in people over age.
Furthermore, it has been proven to interfere with endocrine function, increasing weight, fatigue, and hormonal imbalances.
Related: Is A Rocking Chair Necessary in The Nursery?
Alternatives to soy milk for moms who are breastfeeding
Suppose you’re worried about your child’s health or the milk quality they drink. In that case, there are plenty of nutritious alternatives to soymilk for breastfeeding moms.
Oat Milk
One option that is healthy to consider is oat milk. Oat milk has numerous benefits; for instance, it is gentle on the stomach and can stay for up to three days if refrigerated.
Flax Milk
Another healthy alternative is to go with flax milk. Flax milk is high in calcium and protein and has no cholesterol, making it an excellent alternative to cow’s milk.
Almond Milk
You can also opt for a healthy alternative, like almond milk. Almond milk is a fantastic basis of calcium and protein and contains no cholesterol or saturated fats.
It’s easy to make at home and lasts three days or more in the fridge has an appealing flavor and texture and is high in nutrients too.
Soy milk during nursing: Guidelines for Breastfeeding Moms
Soy being prominent on the list of food items to avoid in our diets does not mean it is a must to avoid. However, soybeans are highly nutrient-rich and free of cholesterol and saturated fats.
It’s also a fantastic source of antioxidants and minerals, especially for women.
Breastfeeding mothers can considerably get soy proteins and not be concerned about security. According to The University of Michigan, protein supplements aren’t always required.
There is no harm in taking supplements if you can eliminate all the extra protein you consume.
Soy protein can be integrated into your diet. It is not necessary to take supplements. Consider edamame as an afternoon snack, or swap your cow’s milk for an ice-cold soy-based variety.
Alongside increasing the amount of protein, you consume, Soy is also heart-friendly and could contribute to cancer prevention.
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