Beer And Breast Milk: Does Drinking Beer Help?

Drinking beer is a popular topic for new mothers, with many believing it can increase their breast milk supply. This belief has been around for centuries, with records showing that beer was prescribed as a milk-boosting agent as far back as 2000 B.C. in several cultures. However, the research on whether drinking beer increases breast milk supply is inconclusive. While some studies suggest that consuming beer may increase levels of prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production, others indicate that alcohol in beer can decrease milk production by inhibiting the milk ejection reflex.

Barley in beer increases prolactin, the hormone that makes milk

It is a common belief that drinking beer can increase breast milk supply. In fact, beer has been prescribed to breastfeeding women as far back as the 1960s and even in ancient times. However, the research on this topic is inconclusive, and the safety of alcohol consumption while breastfeeding has been widely debated.

That being said, it is important to note that the barley in beer, not the alcohol, has been found to increase levels of prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production. This effect has been observed in both non-lactating individuals and experimental animals. Additionally, non-alcoholic beer has been shown to have similar effects on prolactin secretion, providing the galactagogue benefits of barley without the negative effects of alcohol.

While barley in beer may positively impact prolactin levels, it is crucial to consider the potential downsides of alcohol consumption on breastfeeding. Alcohol passes directly from the parent to the baby through breast milk and can cause a decrease in milk production by inhibiting the milk ejection reflex. Studies have shown that babies consume approximately 20-23% less breast milk after their mothers have consumed alcohol. Additionally, infants may dislike the altered taste of alcohol in the milk, further reducing their milk intake.

The overall impact of alcohol on breast milk supply is complex. While barley may boost prolactin levels, alcohol can hinder the milk ejection reflex and decrease milk production. Therefore, it is recommended to consume alcohol in moderation while breastfeeding or opt for non-alcoholic alternatives to minimize any potential negative effects on milk supply.

Alcohol in beer decreases oxytocin, the hormone that affects milk supply and let-down

Oxytocin, also known as the "love hormone", is responsible for facilitating bonding, increasing trust, and promoting altruism. It is produced in the hypothalamus and secreted by the posterior pituitary gland. While oxytocin has many positive effects, recent research has also uncovered a darker side to the hormone. It can increase aggression, risk-taking, and prejudice.

In the context of breastfeeding, oxytocin plays a crucial role in the letdown step of lactation. This is the stage when milk is released from the breast. However, alcohol consumption can interfere with this process. When a person drinks alcohol, it passes directly into their breast milk and can inhibit the release of oxytocin. As a result, breastfeeding mothers may experience a decrease in milk supply and a reduced ability to let down their milk.

Research has shown that even small amounts of alcohol can lead to a temporary but significant reduction in milk supply. A study by Mennella and Beauchamp (1993) found that breastfed infants consumed 23% less milk after their mothers had just one alcoholic beer. This decrease in milk intake can have risks for the infant. Additionally, alcohol can impact an infant's sleep patterns and growth/development.

It is important to note that the effects of alcohol on milk supply and let-down are temporary. Once the alcohol is metabolized, supply levels and let-down function typically return to normal. However, it is generally recommended to wait at least two hours after consuming alcohol before breastfeeding or expressing milk.

While beer contains barley, which can increase prolactin (another hormone involved in milk production), the presence of alcohol can counteract these potential benefits. Therefore, if a breastfeeding mother chooses to drink beer, it is important to do so in moderation and always prioritize the safety and well-being of the infant.

Alcohol in breast milk can change its taste and smell, reducing the baby's milk intake

Alcohol in breast milk can change its taste and smell, which may cause a reduction in the baby's milk intake. This is supported by a study that found that breastfed infants consumed 23% less milk after their mothers had just one alcoholic beer. Another study found that babies consumed 20% less breast milk during the first four hours after their mothers had consumed alcohol.

The change in taste and smell of breast milk due to alcohol consumption is likely due to the transfer of alcohol to the milk. The odor of breast milk has been found to change within 30 minutes to an hour after the mother consumes alcohol. This change in odor parallels the changes in alcohol concentration.

In addition to reducing milk intake, alcohol consumption by the mother can also impact the baby's sleep patterns and growth/development. It is recommended to wait at least two hours after consuming alcohol before breastfeeding or expressing milk.

While the barley in beer can increase prolactin, a hormone that helps produce milk, the alcohol component decreases milk production and inhibits the milk ejection reflex. Therefore, while beer may have some galactagogue effects, the presence of alcohol suppresses these benefits.

Drinking alcohol while breastfeeding may have long-term effects on the baby's development

While breastfeeding, it is best to avoid drinking alcohol altogether. Drinking alcohol while breastfeeding may have long-term effects on the baby's development.

Excessive alcohol consumption can impact a baby's sleep patterns and growth/development. Research has shown that babies sleep less and experience increased REM sleep in the period from 3.5 hours to 24 hours after exposure to alcohol. There may also be long-term implications for the baby's development, but more research is needed to confirm this.

A 2018 study found that 6- and 7-year-old children who had been exposed to alcohol in their mother's milk as babies scored lower on reasoning tests than children who had not been exposed. The study suggests that greater exposure to alcohol in breast milk may have potential long-term effects on the baby's cognitive development.

Additionally, alcohol can decrease milk production and inhibit the milk ejection reflex, leading to decreased milk intake by the baby. Alcohol also passes directly from the parent to the baby through breast milk and can cause drowsiness, deep sleep, weakness, abnormal weight gain, and impaired immune function in the infant.

If a breastfeeding mother chooses to consume alcohol, it is recommended to limit intake to one standard drink per day and to wait at least two hours after drinking before breastfeeding or expressing milk. It is also important to never share a bed or sofa with the baby if any alcohol has been consumed, as this is associated with sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Occasional light drinking while breastfeeding has not been shown to have adverse effects on babies

When it comes to alcohol consumption, it is advisable to prioritise your baby's well-being and exercise caution. If you choose to consume alcohol while breastfeeding, it is generally recommended to wait for at least two hours after drinking before nursing or expressing milk. This allows for the alcohol to metabolise and reduce its presence in your breast milk. Additionally, drinking in moderation is crucial, as excessive alcohol intake can lead to interferences with let-down and reduced milk supply.

The belief that beer increases breast milk supply has some historical basis. Traditional beers, with lower alcohol content and a higher concentration of grains and herbs, may have contributed to enhanced nutrition and milk production in the past. However, modern brewing processes often result in higher alcohol concentrations, which can hinder milk production. While the barley in beer can boost prolactin production, the alcohol component can decrease milk supply and inhibit the milk ejection reflex.

It is worth noting that alcohol passes directly from parent to baby through breast milk and can affect your baby's sleep patterns and growth. Excessive alcohol consumption while breastfeeding can impact your baby's REM sleep and increase their arousal and startling. Additionally, your baby may notice a change in the taste of your breast milk due to the presence of alcohol, which may reduce their milk intake.

To summarise, while occasional light drinking has not been shown to have adverse effects, it is important to prioritise the health and safety of your baby. Planning ahead, such as expressing and storing milk beforehand, can help minimise the amount of alcohol that reaches your baby while still allowing you to enjoy an occasional drink.

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