When my son was around 6 weeks old, I had to eliminate dairy and soy from my diet due to his digestive issues (a polite way of saying his diapers were quite unpleasant). Our pediatrician suspected he had sensitivities to these proteins. By the time he reached 12 weeks, his fussiness increased, and his diaper situation hadn’t improved, prompting me to cut out gluten, peanuts, eggs, and limit most legumes to beans. Ironically, beans didn’t seem to bother him at all.
Stages of Acceptance as a Dairy-Free Mom:
- This is tough; I feel restricted.
- I can manage this! I’m getting the hang of cooking at home and can survive on chicken and zucchini.
- Eating out? How do I do that? Oh, Wendy’s chili and a side salad will work.
- Excited for the July Fourth BBQ! Fingers crossed for dairy-free ice!
Navigating a dairy-free lifestyle can feel overwhelming at first. We dairy-free moms know it can be challenging, and this guide aims to help friends and family comprehend our dietary restrictions. For clarity, any mention of milk and dairy refers to cow’s milk unless otherwise specified.
1. Going Dairy-Free Wasn’t My Choice
While this lifestyle is healthier for both me and my baby, it’s not easy! The convenience of takeout or quick meals is gone. Every meal requires planning, and I need to consider the rest of the family’s preferences too. It’s a challenge, but it’s necessary for my baby’s well-being.
2. Even a Small Amount Can Cause Issues
Just as you can’t be a little pregnant, a small amount of cow’s milk protein can upset my baby’s stomach, leading to gas, fussiness, or worse. There’s no food worth risking the repercussions of undoing all my hard work.
3. Eggs Are Not Dairy
Although eggs are often found in the dairy section, they are not dairy products. However, it’s important to note that some babies sensitive to cow’s milk protein may also react to eggs.
4. Formula Might Not Be the Solution
Many formulas are made from cow’s milk, and a significant number of babies who react to cow’s milk also react to soy. The best alternatives, extensively hydrolyzed or amino acid-based formulas, can be expensive. Switching between breast milk and formula can upset your baby’s tummy, so it’s often best to just focus on your own diet.
5. Vegan Cheese Can Be Disappointing
Most plant-based cheeses leave much to be desired. I encountered vegan queso, which is mainly made from carrot puree. While it’s an option, it’s not the same as the real thing.
6. Dairy Is Everywhere
While it may sound exaggerated, dairy appears in many unexpected products. Even wine can contain dairy through the fining process, which can trigger reactions. So, even your evening glass of wine might require a label check. On the bright side, Trader Joe’s Two Buck Chuck is vegan!
7. My Breast Milk Isn’t the Problem
My baby isn’t allergic to my breast milk; he’s intolerant to cow’s milk proteins that pass through it. While most foods don’t significantly affect breast milk, certain proteins can filter through, which is why we need to be vigilant.
8. I Don’t Mean to Be Difficult
Those delicious-looking mashed potatoes are tempting, but I need to know exactly what’s in them to avoid a sleepless night with a crying baby. I know it’s inconvenient, but it’s essential for my baby’s comfort.
9. It’s a Confusing Situation
Living dairy-free while caring for a little one is an everyday challenge, especially with surprising elements like the fact that meat regulations differ from those of the FDA. Just pass me the dairy-free wine, please; I could really use it!
For additional insights on navigating dietary restrictions during pregnancy and nursing, you might find this blog post helpful: https://intracervicalinsemination.com/blog/.
In summary, being a dairy-free nursing mom can be a daunting yet necessary journey. Understanding the dietary needs of your baby and the impact of your choices can ease this process. For further information on fertility supplements and their benefits, check out https://www.makeamom.com/artificial-insemination-kit/boost-fertility-supplements. If you’re looking for more resources about pregnancy and home insemination, visit https://progyny.com/blog/.