Impact of Maternal Chocolate Consumption on Breastfeeding Infants

Breastfeeding while consuming a lot of chocolate?

Hello Doctor, my baby is currently two weeks old and exclusively breastfed.
We are still at the postpartum care center, and the nurses mentioned that my baby is very fussy and doesn't sleep much.
They asked if I have been drinking coffee or eating chocolate.
I have been eating chocolate almost every day for the past week or two (about one bar).
I read online that chocolate contains theobromine, which can negatively affect the baby's nervous system and heart.
I'm concerned if my consumption of this much chocolate has already impacted my baby.
Also, my baby cries continuously after drinking 60cc of milk and refuses to drink more; what should I do? Is this normal? Additionally, I consumed a lot of chocolate during my pregnancy; could that have been harmful to the baby? Thank you!

Ding Ding, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/01/13

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

Currently, there is no clear medical evidence proving that excessive consumption of chocolate by mothers (and the specific amount that qualifies as excessive) has permanent adverse effects on newborns.
Therefore, I think you need not worry too much.
However, long-term excessive intake may lead to elevated blood levels in newborns, potentially causing irritability and poor sleep (though only a small amount is transferred to breast milk, approximately 0.1% of the mother's blood concentration, with the highest levels occurring 60 minutes after consumption).
At this point, I recommend that you reduce or stop consumption and avoid breastfeeding when blood levels are high, while monitoring the infant's growth and development.
As long as the infant's height and weight are increasing normally, and urine output is normal, a reduced milk intake should not be a concern.

Reply Date: 2017/01/13

More Info

The consumption of chocolate during breastfeeding can raise concerns for new mothers, especially regarding its potential effects on their infants. Chocolate contains theobromine, a compound similar to caffeine, which can affect the nervous system and heart function. However, it is important to understand the extent of these effects and how they relate to breastfeeding.

Firstly, while it is true that theobromine can pass into breast milk, the concentration is relatively low. Research indicates that only about 0.1% of the maternal blood concentration of theobromine is found in breast milk approximately one hour after consumption. Therefore, while consuming a significant amount of chocolate daily, as you mentioned (about one bar), it is unlikely to cause severe adverse effects on your two-week-old baby. However, some infants may be more sensitive to theobromine than others, which could lead to increased irritability or difficulty sleeping.

If your baby is showing signs of fussiness and restlessness, it may be beneficial to reduce or eliminate chocolate from your diet temporarily to observe if there is any improvement in your baby's behavior. Monitoring your baby's growth and development is crucial; as long as they are gaining weight appropriately and producing a normal amount of urine, occasional fussiness may not be a cause for concern.

Regarding your baby's feeding habits, it is not uncommon for infants to cry or become fussy after consuming a certain amount of milk. Babies often have varying feeding patterns, and it is normal for them to want to feed frequently, especially during growth spurts. If your baby is drinking about 60cc and then crying, it may indicate that they are either still hungry or experiencing discomfort. You can try to soothe your baby through gentle rocking, swaddling, or offering the breast again if they seem interested. If the fussiness persists or worsens, consulting with a pediatrician or a lactation consultant may provide additional strategies tailored to your baby's needs.

As for your chocolate consumption during pregnancy, while moderation is key, occasional consumption is generally considered safe. However, excessive intake of chocolate or caffeine during pregnancy can lead to potential risks, such as low birth weight or increased heart rate in the fetus. It is always advisable to maintain a balanced diet during pregnancy and breastfeeding, focusing on nutrient-rich foods that support both your health and your baby's development.

In summary, while your chocolate consumption may have some impact on your baby, it is unlikely to cause significant harm. Reducing your intake and observing your baby's behavior can help you determine if there is a connection. Additionally, understanding that feeding patterns can vary widely among infants will help you navigate this challenging period. If you have ongoing concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to healthcare professionals for guidance and support.

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