When breastfeeding, it's completely normal to wonder what is "forbidden" and what should simply be limited. The Danish Health Authority's recommendations are generally not about a long list of foods you should never eat, but about making safe choices and varying your diet, as well as being particularly aware of certain things like alcohol, caffeine, and certain types of fish. Here you will find practical guidance based on the official advice from the Danish Health Authority and the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration.

The Danish Health Authority generally states that you can eat normal, varied food while breastfeeding. However, there are areas where it is wise to be extra careful.

In practice, it is rarely "a single food" that is the problem. It is typically:

• the quantity (e.g., caffeine)
• the frequency (e.g., alcohol)
• the type (e.g., fish with a risk of environmental contaminants)

If you are in doubt about your situation, consult your health visitor or doctor, especially if the child has symptoms you are concerned about.

The authorities' advice is cautious because alcohol passes into breast milk. If you drink alcohol, it is therefore relevant to plan so that the child is not breastfed immediately afterward.

• Avoid breastfeeding while intoxicated.
• Consider timing if you drink, so there is a delay before the next feeding.

If you need a specific assessment regarding quantities, your weight, and how long alcohol remains in the body, you can discuss it with your health visitor.

Caffeine can also pass into breast milk, and some children react with restlessness or affected sleep. Therefore, it makes sense to be aware of the total intake from coffee, tea, cola, and energy drinks.

• Drink coffee/tea earlier in the day if you experience restlessness in the child
• Choose decaffeinated options occasionally
• Be extra cautious with energy drinks, as they often contain a lot of caffeine

If you make any changes, give it a few days and see if the child seems calmer.

Fish is healthy, but the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has specific advice on fish species that may contain more mercury or other undesirable substances. This also applies when you are breastfeeding.

Go for fish that are typically recommended as good and safe choices, and limit fish that authorities advise against or recommend eating rarely. Always check the latest lists from the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration, as recommendations can be updated.

Many are told to avoid spicy food, cabbage, onions, or dairy products when breastfeeding. Official recommendations are not based on the idea that all breastfeeding mothers should exclude specific foods as standard.

If your child, for example, develops a rash, blood in the stool, persistent stomach problems, or clear signs of poor thriving, you should contact a health visitor or doctor instead of making major dietary exclusions yourself. Unnecessary restrictions can make it harder to get enough varied food.

When the focus is on "what not to eat," it can be nice to also make breastfeeding more practical in everyday life. For example, if you leak milk or need gentle support without an underwire, breastfeeding accessories can make a real difference.

• Nursing pads can help you stay dry and comfortable.
• Gel-Support Maternity & Nursing Bra provides support without irritation and is wire-free.

• Danish Health Authority: Breastfeeding and related advice on diet and supplements (sst.dk)
• Danish Health Authority:

  Breastfeeding - a handbook for healthcare professionals (updated 2023)

• Danish Veterinary and Food Administration: Dietary advice for pregnant and breastfeeding women (foedevarestyrelsen.dk)