5 Tasty DIY Cocktails for Nursing Moms

(Newswire.net — December 10, 2017) Cheyenne, Wyoming — We can all agree not to drink and drive but most are divided on the idea of drinking while nursing. It’s a guilty debate many breastfeeding moms have with themselves. Researchers are on the same page that the level of alcohol consumed by a mom does carry over the alcohol level found in her breast milk but within moderation, it’s not harmful to your nursing baby.  

In fact, Dr. Thomas W. Hale says his book Medications and Mothers’ Milk (12th ed.) that “the absolute amount of alcohol transferred into milk is generally low” and simply advises breastfeeding moms to wait 2-3 hours after judiciously having an alcoholic beverage. Still, as an extra safety measure such as using the PureMilk™ Breast Milk Alcohol Test Strips by HealthyWiser™ to accurately confirm your alcohol levels after a drink would be a wise and mature decision. 

While expert recommendations ought to smooth much of your concerns, it all boils down to a personal choice, you inner convictions, your baby’s age and general health. One should note, however, that Dr. Hale is also a member of the La Leche League International’s Health Advisory Council so he’s definitely one of the best people to speak to regarding this matter. So in the event you’d like to carefully wet your tongue and indulge a smidge, check out these DIY low-octane cocktails from Bon Appétit.

Rosé Spritzer – Party for one? Treat yourself to a light afternoon drink on the rocks by combining 2 lemon slices, 4 dashes Peychaud’s bitters and ½ ounce St-Germain (elderflower liqueur) then top it off with 4 ounces sparkling rosé.

American Light – Easy does it with this cocktail  as you mix 1 ½ ounce Punt e Mes and 1 ½ ounce Aperol in a cocktail shaker with ice, not so much shaken but stirred for 30 seconds, then strain and top with club soda.

522 North Pinckney Cocktail – Similar to a Mimosa, this drink calls for 2 cups fresh pink grapefruit juice (from 2-3 grapefruits), 1/2 cup St-Germain (elderflower liqueur) and 1/4 cup Campari. Mix, cover and chill for at least 2 hours then serve topped off with sparkling wine.

Wine Spritzer – Fill a wine glass with 3 oz. aromatic white wine that’s not too sweet (such as Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, or Gewürztraminer) then top it with 1 oz. club soda and a dash of orange or lemon bitters. Orange or lemon twist garnish optional.

Roman Holiday Cocktail – Muddle 8 mint leaves with ½ oz. simple syrup in a shaker then introduce 1 oz. Averna Amaro Siciliano, 1 oz. Italian sweet vermouth such as Carpano Antica Formula and ¾ oz. fresh lemon juice. Shake for about 30 seconds, strain and serve on the rocks.

Remember to indulge responsibly, wait at least 2-3 hours before breastfeeding and check yourself with the quick easy-to-read PureMilk Breast Milk Alcohol Test Strips between 30-60 minutes after consuming a drink, and if drinking while eating, it is advised to wait between 60-90 minutes for best results.