Can You Drink Kefir When Breastfeeding?
Written by Jordan Morley · Reviewed against NHS: food and drinks to avoid when breastfeeding · Last updated 28 October 2026
Yes. Kefir is fine while breastfeeding. Choose pasteurised milk kefir from a shop, which is the sensible everyday choice.
What the guidance says
Kefir is a fermented milk drink with live cultures, and it has no breastfeeding restriction. Shop-bought kefir is made from pasteurised milk. Fermentation produces a trace of alcohol, too little to count in normal servings.
You can also check the calorie content of kefir alongside its safety information.
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More for the feeding months
Kefir: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| In pregnancy | Pasteurised-milk kefir only |
Common questions
Is kefir safe while breastfeeding?
Yes. Kefir is fine while breastfeeding. Choose pasteurised milk kefir from a shop, which is the sensible everyday choice.
Does kefir contain alcohol?
A trace, from fermentation. In normal servings it is far too little to matter.
Is homemade kefir fine?
It's made with live grains and is not sterile. Shop-bought is the more predictable choice.
Was this different during pregnancy?
In pregnancy our verdict was “pasteurised-milk kefir only” (see our pregnancy guide for the reasons).
What should I avoid while breastfeeding?
The NHS list is short. Caffeine: try not to have more than 300mg a day (a mug of filter coffee is about 140mg, instant 100mg, tea 75mg). Alcohol: it is safer not to drink, but 1 or 2 units once or twice a week should be fine. Oily fish: no more than 2 portions a week. Shark, swordfish and marlin: no more than 1 portion a week. Peanuts are fine unless you're allergic. Most other foods that were off the menu in pregnancy, such as soft cheese, pâté, cured meat and runny eggs, are not restricted.
Related answers
Primary source: NHS: food and drinks to avoid when breastfeeding.
General information only, not medical advice: see the medical disclaimer. Feeling unwell after eating something? Contact NHS 111 or your GP.