ℹ️Myth BustedCurated
Deli Meat
Deli meat is safe while breastfeeding! The pregnancy restriction was about listeria risk to the fetus — that concern doesn't apply once your baby is born and you're nursing.
Myth: The deli meat restriction is a pregnancy-only rule due to listeria risk to the fetus. Listeria does NOT pass through breast milk, so deli meat is safe while breastfeeding.
During pregnancy, listeria from deli meat could cross the placenta and harm the baby. But while breastfeeding, foodborne pathogens like listeria don't pass through breast milk. If you got sick, it would be unpleasant for you but wouldn't harm your baby through your milk. Go ahead and enjoy that turkey sandwich!
Always confirm with your doctor or lactation consultant before making dietary changes while breastfeeding.
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