Can I eat watermelon during lactation?

Nov 11, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I've been breastfeeding for several months. I ate a lot of watermelon tonight and am worried about potential effects. May I ask if it's safe to eat watermelon while breastfeeding?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu

It is safe for breastfeeding mothers to eat watermelon. Watermelon contains abundant nutrients, such as glucose, fructose, vitamin C, and ample water, all of which help breastfeeding mothers replenish nutrition, increase breast milk production, and relieve heat.

However, watermelon is a cold-natured fruit, and excessive consumption may cause diarrhea or indigestion. This not only affects the mother's health but may also influence the baby's digestive system through breast milk. Therefore, it is recommended that breastfeeding mothers consume watermelon in moderation, no more than one pound per day, and pay attention to their own and their baby's physical reactions. If any discomfort occurs, they should immediately reduce or stop consumption.

When choosing watermelon, fresh and mature varieties should be selected, and overripe or spoiled watermelons should be avoided. It is also important to clean the surface dirt and bacteria to ensure food safety.

In addition, it is best to eat watermelon as a snack between meals rather than with main meals to reduce the burden on the gastrointestinal tract.