Nutrition Science and Everyday Application - beta v 0.1

NUTRITION IN EARLY INFANCY 593
wide variety of foods and flavors while breastfeeding, their children grow up to be more
adventurous eaters. 15
In addition to consuming a nutrient-dense diet, obstetricians sometimes recommend
that breastfeeding mothers continue taking a prenatal supplement to ensure that their
micronutrient needs are met. Breastfeeding mothers should also be sure to drink plenty of
fluids to support milk production. 13
Similar to pregnancy, substances consumed by the breastfeeding mother can pass to
the infant in her milk. However, how much passes into the milk depends on the type
of substance and the timing of consumption relative to breastfeeding. For example, it’s
considered safe for a breastfeeding mother to have an alcoholic drink so long as she
waits at least two hours before breastfeeding, because by that point, most of the alcohol
will have cleared her bloodstream and will not pass into her milk. Caffeine lasts longer
in the blood but is considered safe in moderation, with a limit of about 300 milligrams
per day. 13 Cannabinoids, the chemicals found in cannabis, are fat-soluble and remain in a
mother’s bloodstream and body tissues for much longer. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the
main psychoactive chemical in cannabis, has been detected in breast milk as much as 6
weeks after a mother used cannabis. 16 Although it’s not clear how these chemicals affect
babies when consumed in breast milk, medical organizations agree it’s best to avoid using
cannabis while breastfeeding.
The National Institutes of Health’s LactMed database is a great resource for information
about the safety of drugs, medications, and supplements during breastfeeding.
Nutrient Composition of Infant Formula
To a certain extent, the nutrient composition of infant formula is modeled after that of
human milk, and although it by no means duplicates breast milk, it is a safe and effective
substitute. Formula is made from ingredients such as cow’s milk, soy, vegetable oils,