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Pesticides on Produce
Pesticide residues on produce can be detected in breast milk at low levels. Washing produce thoroughly, peeling when appropriate, and prioritizing organic for high-residue items (the Dirty Dozen) are practical steps to reduce exposure without avoiding produce altogether.
The benefits of eating plenty of fruits and vegetables while breastfeeding far outweigh the risks of typical pesticide exposure. To reduce exposure: wash all produce under running water (even organic), use the Environmental Working Group's Dirty Dozen list to guide organic purchases, peel produce when possible, and eat a wide variety to avoid concentrating exposure from any one item. Fat-soluble pesticides (organochlorines) are more likely to appear in breast milk than water-soluble ones.
Always confirm with your doctor or lactation consultant before making dietary changes while breastfeeding.
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