When you are breastfeeding, you can really eat almost anything (unlike during pregnancy where you have to be careful about every morsel). The only foods you really need to avoid are the ones that don't go very well with your baby and cause him stomach upsets. You will discover these forbidden foods as and when you come across them but remember that your baby depends on you for nutrition and everything you eat or drink is reaching him through your milk.

If you are breastfeeding, you must remember the following:

• Eat well: You will need an extra 500 calories a day if you are breastfeeding. Try to get these from foods like bread, pasta, cereals, rice etc. This is not a time to diet so don't start on one now. If you are breastfeeding, you will lose the extra weight gradually anyway.
• Fluids: Breastfeeding makes you thirstier than usual. Aim to drink as many fluids as you can. This will help relieve any constipation as well. Tea and coffee: Avoid or reduce your intake of these. Your child may feel its effect and have problems settling and sleeping if you take too much caffeine
• Alcohol: Best avoided (or at least reduced) as your baby will definitely feel its effects and become irritable and drowsy
• Drugs: Don't take any over-the-counter drugs on your own. Always consult the pharmacist or your doctor before purchasing any.