Can I eat fennel during lactation?
Jul 02, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, nursing mothers can consume fennel, but should pay attention to moderation. Although fennel has certain nutritional value, excessive consumption may irritate the gastrointestinal tract and cause discomfort symptoms such as indigestion. At the same time, excessive intake of fennel may also affect milk secretion, thereby influencing the infant's growth and development. Therefore, it is recommended that nursing mothers consume fennel in moderation and avoid excessive intake.
Generally speaking, fennel can be consumed during lactation, as long as it is taken in moderation. Detailed explanations are as follows:
Fennel is rich in vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, potassium, calcium, and other minerals, as well as dietary fiber. Vitamin C helps enhance immunity, potassium helps breastfeeding mothers alleviate electrolyte loss caused by lactation, and dietary fiber promotes intestinal motility, improving common postpartum constipation issues. Moreover, the unique aroma of fennel can stimulate appetite, helping mothers maintain a good eating condition during this period of high energy consumption.
Although fennel has certain nutritional value, excessive consumption may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, causing discomfort symptoms such as indigestion. Additionally, overconsumption of fennel may affect milk secretion, thereby impacting the infant's growth and development. Therefore, it is recommended that lactating women consume fennel in moderation and avoid excessive intake. The freshness of fennel affects both its taste and nutritional value. Thus, when selecting fennel, it is important to choose fresh ingredients and avoid consuming expired or spoiled fennel.
