Dark Beer And Breastfeeding: A Healthy Combination?

There is a long-held belief that drinking dark beer can help with breastfeeding. The idea has been around for centuries, with records showing that the Sumerian people prescribed beer as a breastfeeding aid as far back as 2000 B.C. The belief has persisted, with many cultures continuing to recommend beer, particularly stout, to new mothers to increase their milk supply. While there is some science to support this—the barley in beer contains a polysaccharide that increases prolactin, a milk-production hormone—the presence of alcohol in beer negates any benefit, as it suppresses milk production and inhibits the milk ejection reflex.

Barley in dark beer increases prolactin, a milk-production hormone

The idea that dark beer can help with breastfeeding has been around for a long time. In fact, humans have been touting the milk-boosting benefits of beer for centuries. As far back as 2000 B.C., records show that the Sumerian people prescribed beer as an aid for breastfeeding.

The belief that beer can help with breastfeeding is so widespread that it has been called a cross-cultural old wives' tale. This belief is so strong that, in some cultures, it is common to give new moms a bottle of stout while they are still in the hospital.

So, where did this idea come from? Well, it turns out that there is some science to back it up. Barley, a main ingredient in stout, contains a polysaccharide that increases prolactin, a milk-production hormone. Prolactin is one of the two hormones responsible for milk production, so it makes sense that increasing prolactin could lead to increased milk production.

However, it's important to note that the alcohol in beer can actually decrease milk production. Alcohol inhibits the milk ejection reflex, leading to a decrease in the amount of milk that is released. So, while the barley in beer may increase prolactin levels, the alcohol in beer could counteract this effect by inhibiting milk release.

Overall, while there may be some truth to the idea that dark beer can help with breastfeeding due to its barley content, it is important to consider the potential negative effects of alcohol on milk production. As always, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional to get personalized advice and recommendations.

Alcohol in dark beer decreases milk production

While dark beer contains ingredients that can increase milk production, the alcohol content suppresses these benefits.

The barley in beer can boost prolactin production, a hormone that aids the production of milk from breast tissue. However, the alcohol in beer decreases milk production and inhibits the milk ejection reflex, or "letdown", from letting down as much milk.

Research has shown that babies consume less breast milk after their mothers have consumed alcohol. One study found that breastfed infants consumed 23% less milk after their mothers had just one alcoholic beer. Another study found that babies whose mothers had consumed alcohol took in approximately 20% less breast milk during the first four hours, despite spending a similar amount of time on the breast.

While the barley in beer can increase milk production, the alcohol component counteracts these benefits. Therefore, alcohol-free beer may be a better option for breastfeeding mothers as it provides the galactagogue benefits of barley without the negative effects of alcohol.

Alcohol-free beer has galactagogue benefits of barley

Alcohol-free beer has been shown to have galactagogue benefits. The barley in beer can boost prolactin production, which increases breast milk production. However, it's important to note that the alcohol in regular beer decreases milk production and inhibits the milk ejection reflex.

A 2017 study suggested that drinking in moderation while breastfeeding is relatively safe and will not negatively affect the baby in the first year of life. However, there may be potential long-term effects on the baby, especially from greater exposure to alcohol in breast milk. Therefore, it is generally recommended to avoid alcohol consumption while breastfeeding.

Alcohol-free beer provides a way for breastfeeding mothers to potentially increase their milk supply without the negative effects of alcohol. It is also a good option for those who want to avoid alcohol completely or are unable to consume it due to pregnancy or other reasons.

In addition to its galactagogue benefits, alcohol-free beer has several other advantages. It is rich in proteins, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, and is a good source of folic acid, calcium, potassium, and fibre. It is hydrating, perfect for those with hypertension, and has a diuretic effect that can help prevent kidney stones. It also contains compounds that may reduce stress and anxiety and improve sleep.

Overall, alcohol-free beer has many potential health benefits, including its positive impact on breastfeeding mothers.

Alcohol in breast milk can impact baby's sleep patterns and growth/development

Alcohol in breast milk can negatively impact a baby's sleep patterns and growth/development.

Sleep Patterns

Research has shown that alcohol in breast milk can disrupt a baby's sleep patterns. A study by Mennella and Gerrish (1998) found that infants exposed to alcohol in their mothers' milk slept for significantly shorter periods in the hours immediately after consumption. Specifically, they exhibited less active sleep during the second half of a 3.5-hour testing session, and compensated for this reduction by sleeping more in the following 20.5 hours when their mothers refrained from drinking. Another study by Mennella and Garcia-Gomez (2001) found that infants experienced significantly less active sleep after exposure to alcohol in their mothers' milk, with a decrease observed in all but four of the 23 infants tested.

Growth and Development

In terms of growth and development, exposure to alcohol in breast milk has been linked to potential long-term effects. A 2018 study by Gibson and Porter found that 6- and 7-year-old children who had been exposed to alcohol in breast milk as babies scored lower on reasoning tests compared to children who had not been exposed. Additionally, a 1989 study by Little et al. suggested that maternal alcohol use during breastfeeding may negatively impact infant mental and motor development at one year of age. However, the researchers were unable to replicate these findings in a follow-up study six months later.

It is important to note that moderate alcohol consumption, defined as about one drink per day, is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. At this level, research has shown no known harmful effects on the infant. However, more than one drink per day is not recommended, as it may lead to possible drinking-related issues such as reduced milk production and negative impacts on the baby's sleep patterns and growth/development.

Drinking alcohol while pregnant is not advised

While it may be tempting to reach for an alcoholic drink during pregnancy, it is important to remember that alcohol can have negative effects on both the mother and the developing fetus. Excessive alcohol consumption during pregnancy can lead to fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), which can cause physical and intellectual disabilities in the child. Even moderate alcohol consumption during pregnancy has been linked to an increased risk of behavioral and cognitive problems in children. Therefore, it is generally recommended that pregnant women abstain from drinking alcohol to avoid any potential harm to their unborn child.

For breastfeeding mothers, the advice on alcohol consumption is more nuanced. Some sources, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), recommend avoiding alcohol while breastfeeding. This is because alcohol passes into breast milk and can affect the baby's sleep patterns and development. Additionally, alcohol can inhibit milk production and the milk ejection reflex, leading to a decrease in milk supply. However, other sources suggest that moderate alcohol consumption, such as one standard drink per day, is unlikely to harm the baby as long as the mother waits at least two hours after drinking before breastfeeding or pumping.

While there is some evidence that the polysaccharide carbohydrates found in beer, such as barley and hops, can increase milk production, this effect is counteracted by the alcohol content, which suppresses milk production. Therefore, alcohol-free beer may be a better option for breastfeeding mothers who want to boost their milk supply. It is important to note that the effects of alcohol on milk production and breastfeeding are temporary, and supply levels return to normal once the alcohol has been metabolized.

Overall, while an occasional drink is unlikely to cause harm, pregnant and breastfeeding women should exercise caution and moderation when it comes to alcohol consumption. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional to get personalized advice and recommendations.

Frequently asked questions