Are there any foods I cannot eat while breastfeeding?

    Last Updated: May 16, 2025

    Lactating parents are primarily advised to avoid fish with high mercury concentrations, such as shark and swordfish, but they can still consume low-mercury fish like salmon and sardines. Additionally, dietary restrictions may be necessary if the infant has specific metabolic diseases or if the parent observes adverse effects related to their diet.

    Unlike the list of foods to avoid during pregnancy, the only food lactating parents are advised to avoid is fish with high concentrations of mercury (e.g., shark, swordfish, tilefish),[1] unless the infant has a metabolic disease requiring special dietary restrictions, or the parent notices certain trends between their dietary intake and their infant's behaviors/digestion/temperament.

    Avoiding high-mercury fish does not imply avoiding fish all together. The FDA recommends 8 to 12 ounces per week of fish and/or shellfish low in mercury (e.g., anchovies, salmon, sardines, hake, clams) for lactating parents.

    Are there any foods I cannot eat while breastfeeding? - Examine