FROM: Sturgess, Frances Coulter
TO:[log in to unmask]
SUBJECT: gas/colic
DATE: 01-16-97   14:52 EST
PRIORITY:


re: caffeine and sodas--not all sodas contain caffeine, most soda waters
don't.  Culprits are usually cola based (although Mountain Dew, which is
clear, has as much as cola)  Generally, check ingredient label if unsure.

caffeine and chocolate--raw cocoa contains a lot but the amount in chocolate
milk/candy is like 6-10 mgs (contrast coffee at 150mgs and up).  However,
chocolate contains many other mood altering chemicals like theobromine, which
sometimes affect digestion (and stimulates endorphins--the feel-good hormones,
i think someone once said).  I like the stuff, and would hate to give it up
unnecessarily, so it is not one of my routine no-nos for pregnancy or
lactation advice, unless other potential irritatns were not culprit.

gas and veggies--its not (just) the fiber that may give gas but the flavor
chemicals andothers that do go into milk from onions and "cruciferous" veggies
like brussesl sprouts etc.  Somehow it seems to be a question of
tolerance/what mom and baby are used to.  I dont recall seeing advice to moms
in other cultures to necessarily avoid garlic, veggies etc but i am not up on
the hot/cold/yin/yang theories either.  It has been shown though, that
breastfed babies are much more receptive to new foods/flavors, probably
because they are exposed to them early in moms diet, wherease ABM infants
arelimited in exposure to that lovely smelling ABM and maybe oatmeal--real
flavor treats there...