Most women can eat their normal range of foods without causing problems for their baby. To meet your energy needs, remember to have a sandwich or snack each time you breastfeed or express milk. 

Alcohol should be avoided as it can pass through breastmilk to the baby. If you do drink alcohol, you should wait at least 2 hours before breastfeeding your baby. Caffeine (e.g. tea, coffee and energy drinks) should also be limited as large amounts in your diet can cause your baby to become irritable.

There are a small number of medications that can be passed to your baby through breastmilk, so you should always ask your GP to prescribe medications that can be taken while breastfeeding. Also check with your GP before taking over-the-counter medicines like vitamins or other complementary (natural) medicines. Avoid smoking and illicit drugs.