Breastfeeding a Baby with Food Allergies: What Every Mom Needs to Know!

June 20, 2025

Let’s Talk About Breastfeeding with Food Allergies

Breastfeeding provides countless benefits for both mom and baby—but what happens when food allergies enter the picture? If your baby is showing signs of discomfort, rashes, or digestive issues, you might be wondering if your diet is to blame. The good news? With the right guidance, breastfeeding through allergies is not only possible, but incredibly empowering.

 Recognizing Food Allergy Symptoms in Babies

When you start breastfeeding, the food that you eat is broken down into smaller proteins and some of those proteins can pass into breastmilk. If your baby has food allergies, then they may be affected by the food that you eat. Not all babies will have food allergies, some have them when they’re born and other kids may get them a few weeks after beginning breastfeeding. Symptoms to watch out for if you are worried your baby may have an allergy/sensitivity to something you are eating:

  • Rash on their skin
  • Eczema
  • Vomiting
  • Fussiness
  • Blood in stool
  • Reflux symptoms 

This isn’t a complete list, but these are some of the most common signs that could mean your baby is reacting to something in your diet.

Allergy vs. Intolerance vs. Sensitivity

Not all reactions are the same. An allergy is an immune system response and can be serious or even life-threatening. A food intolerance, like lactose intolerance, usually involves the digestive system and causes discomfort but not immune symptoms. A sensitivity is less defined, and reactions may be delayed or more vague—like fatigue or congestion.

Understanding the difference can help you take the right steps toward identifying triggers without cutting out foods unnecessarily.

There are many different kinds of food that a baby may be allergic to. But there are some common ones to watch out for such as dairy, eggs, soy, gluten, and nuts. 

How Long Do Food Proteins Stay in Breast Milk?

Did you know that food proteins from your diet can pass into your breast milk within just a few hours after eating? Research, including data from Free to Feed shows that most proteins peak in breast milk around 4–6 hours, and are usually cleared within 6–8 hours, though in some cases it can take up to 24 hours for complete elimination. Despite this, many healthcare providers still tell breastfeeding moms that it takes weeks for allergens to leave their milk — but that simply isn’t backed by current evidence. So why do symptoms in babies sometimes take longer to improve? It’s not because the proteins are lingering in your milk — it’s because your baby’s gut lining is inflamed, and it can take up to 2 weeks or more for that inflammation to fully heal. Understanding this difference can empower you to make informed feeding choices and give you peace of mind as you navigate your baby’s food allergies. You can learn more about the science behind this at Free to Feed.

 Elimination Diets: How to Identify the Culprit

If an allergy is suspected and your healthcare provider agrees, you may be advised to try an elimination diet. This involves removing suspected allergen/allergens for a period of time, often 1-2 weeks, and watching for improvement. Then, foods are reintroduced one at a time to identify the culprit.

Tips for success:

  • Keep a food and symptom journal
  • Work with a professional—IBCLC and dietician
  • Be patient; reactions can take time to resolve

Nourishing Yourself While Navigating Diet Changes

Eliminating foods like dairy or gluten can feel overwhelming and scary at first, but there are many nutritious alternatives out there. Try:

  • Calcium-rich options like fortified plant milks, leafy greens, chia seeds
  • Protein swaps like lentils, quinoa, tofu (if tolerated), or lean meats
  • Allergy-friendly recipes and grocery lists to make shopping easier

Many grocery stores now have sections dedicated to gluten or dairy free alternatives. 

 Support and Mental Well-Being

Food restrictions can be emotionally draining. It’s normal to feel frustrated or overwhelmed. Remember:

  • You are doing an incredible job
  • You’re not alone—many parents go through this
  • Support groups (online or local) can be a lifeline

Give yourself grace, celebrate your effort, and take care of your emotional well-being too.

Conclusion

Navigating allergies while breastfeeding might feel daunting, but you are not powerless. With the right support team and knowledge, you can continue breastfeeding while managing your baby’s unique needs.

Every small step you take is a huge leap in love and dedication.

Do you have questions about breastfeeding with food allergies or need support! I am here for you! Most mamas are 100% covered by their insurance;)

Book an appointment here!