Can your breastfed baby have an allergic reaction from something you ate?

Answer 1

YES!!!!

Although it's extremely rare! In case a baby shows an allergic reaction to breast mik, it is more likely that it reacts to foods which the mother eats, as they pass through the breast milk into the baby's digestive system. On many sites (especially on forums) you read that "babies are never allergic to breast milk". This is NOT true! It is very rare though. There is a genetic disease called methylmalonic acidaemia (MMA). This condition means that the baby is unable to breakdown protein and thus the protein in the milk is poisoning the whole body. This is a very serious situation and can eventually result in the babies death, if the breastfeeding continues (see http://www.itv.com/Lifestyle/ThisMorning/Health/AllergictoBreastMilk123/default.html). More info here: http://children-allergy.com/is-your-baby-allergic-to-your-breastmilk

In very rare cases a mother's immune system can create antibodies (transmitted through the breast milk) that can be harmful to her baby. In that rare case, the baby cannot continue breastfeeding and the mother will be offered a shot by her medical doctor to prevent this kind of immune response in future childbearing. Again that's very rare, and the number one symptom of that is SEVERE jaundice. If you suspect that your child is suffering from food-allergy you should consult with your pediatrician. Unfortunately many pediatricians are reluctant to conclude that a child is allergic to food. Your may have to fight your corner. Also many are hesitant to tell a mother to drop things from her diet, because they're concerned about her nutrition. Stand your ground and if your pediatrician refuses to listen to your concerns, you can ask to be referred to an allergist.

Answer 2

Yes, it is very rare. If the child is born with galactosemia, they will not be able to digest breast milk.

Answer 3

No.