Skip to main content Skip to accessibility
This website is not compatible with your web browser. You should install a newer browser. If you live in Jersey and need help upgrading call the States of Jersey web team on 440099.
Government of Jerseygov.je

Information and public services for the Island of Jersey

L'înformâtion et les sèrvices publyis pouor I'Île dé Jèrri

Man holding babyMan holding baby

​​​​​Smoking

Being a smoker should not stop you from breastfeeding, If you do smoke and are breastfeeding, smoke after you have breastfed to minimise the amount of nicotine in your milk.

Don't smoke whilst handling your baby, including breastfeeding. Smoke as far away from your baby as possible to prevent exposing your baby to smoke particles small enough to inhale.

Other smokers in the household should smoke outside or at least in another room, away from your baby. They should wash their hands after smoking and before touching your baby.

We recommend wearing a jacket or outer garment while smoking to protect clothing from smoke particles. Remove the jacket before any contact with the baby to reduce exposure to smoke particles.

If you would like help to cut down or quit completely your midwife or health visitor can refer you to Help2Quit. Help2Quit give advice and offer support and help using nicotine replacement therapy. This is also available for partners and family members.

Drinking alcohol

Anything you eat and drink whilst breastfeeding will pass through your breastmilk, including alcohol.

The effects of alcohol on your baby is directly related to the amount you drink. It is safer not to drink any alcohol whilst breastfeeding, but an occasional alcoholic drink is unlikely to cause harm. One or two units of alcohol once or twice per week should be fine.

One unit is equal to:

  • a small glass of wine (125ml)
  • half a pint of beer
  • a single measure of a spirit (25ml)

Heavy, regular binge drinking may be harmful and should be avoided. If you do consume large volumes of alcohol, avoid breastfeeding for 2 to 3 hours after drinking to allow the level of alcohol in your milk to reduce.

If you do drink alcohol don't bed share with your baby.

Excess levels of alcohol in breastmilk may lead to:

  • drowsiness
  • deep sleep
  • weakness
  • decreased growth

Let-down is a normal reflex that happens when the nerves in your breasts are stimulated, usually when your baby is sucking your nipple. Reduction in let-down is reported when there is a heavy consumption of alcohol.

More information relating to alcohol in breastmilk can be found from La Leche League at La Leche League website.  

Find more information on general alcohol consumption in the alcohol and drugs section of Gov.je at alcohol and drugs

Drinking caffeine

Caffeine can reach your baby through your breastmilk; it can make your baby irritable and restless. It is found in drinks and foods such as:

  • tea
  • coffee
  • energy drinks
  • cola
  • chocolate and cocoa
  • some pain medication

Try to restrict your caffeine intake to less than 200mg a day. As a guide:​

  • 1 mug of tea = 75mg
  • 1 mug of instant coffee = 100mg
  • 1 mug of filtered coffee = 140mg
  • 50g plain chocolate = up to 50mg
  • 250ml can of energy drink = 80mg
  • 354ml can of cola = 40mg

Decaffeinated tea and coffee are a good alternative. 

Eating peanuts

Peanuts or foods containing peanuts are safe to eat whilst breastfeeding as part of a healthy balanced diet, unless of course you have an allergy to them.

There is no evidence to suggest that eating peanuts while you are breastfeeding will lead to your baby developing an allergy to peanuts.

Discuss any concerns that you may have relating to allergies from food with your health visitor, midwife or GP.​

Can I breastfeed if I'm...on the NHS website

​​


Back to top
rating button