When you choose to breastfeed, it is vitally important to replenish liquids in your body. This need may precipitate a woman to wonder, “Can you drink too much water while breastfeeding?” The question may seem almost silly, but the question remains and deserves an answer.

The short, simple answer is that yes, you can drink too much water while you’re breastfeeding. In fact, doing so will cause your milk supply to decrease. Drinking more than 80 ounces of water a day, according to research done by the La Leche League, reduces potassium levels which in turn has a negative impact on a woman’s milk supply.

What’s a nursing mother to do to maintain her milk supply? Eat healthy, well-balanced meals, because what we eat and drink does affect our breast milk. Do you like spicy foods? You might not want to indulge in that culinary passion too much until you’ve finished breastfeeding. Some babies have been known to become fussy or colicky when certain spicy foods are eaten.

Pay attention to the foods you eat and how your baby reacts. You may find that spicy foods aren’t the only culprit when it comes to making your baby fussy. Other common problem foods are onions, garlic, broccoli, too many dairy products, and peanut butter. Watch the way your baby acts for about 24 hours to see if there is a reaction. If there is, avoid those foods or at least limit them while you’re breastfeeding.

Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, as fresh as you can get them. Dairy products, breads and cereals, and lean meats are also good to eat to maintain a good supply of breast milk. Make sure to get a good variety of foods, but watch to see if your baby reacts adversely to what you eat, then change your diet accordingly.

While the quality of the milk may not be affected, the amount produced may be affected by not drinking enough liquids. The following are signs that you’re not getting enough liquids in your diet:

• Dark colored urine, not clear
• Urine that has a strong smell
• Constipation

To help you maintain a good quantity of breast milk, it is suggested that you get between six and ten 8-ounce glasses of liquid each day. You may have juice, water, soup, decaffeinated tea or coffee, and milk. If you have any of the above symptoms, drink more water until those symptoms clear up.

If you have any specific questions concerning your diet, the amount of liquids you should consume, or anything else concerning your body or child while breastfeeding, don’t hesitate to contact the hospital’s lactation consultant, your doctor, or your child’s pediatrician.

If you’ve wondered, “Can you drink too much water while breastfeeding,” the answer is yes. While it is possible, the opposite tends to be more the case. Women often don’t drink enough fluids, which will also affect breast milk production. The best course of action is to drink when you’re thirsty, eat a healthy diet, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it.