Breastfeeding mothers need to increase their caloric intake by 500 calories per day, with a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, protein, and calcium. Avoid unhealthy snacks and sugary drinks, and consider taking prenatal vitamins. Consult with a pediatrician for specific concerns.
Nutrition while breastfeeding is incredibly important, just as it was during pregnancy. A lactating woman will generally need to increase her caloric intake; Doctors often recommend increasing calories by about 500 per day, but it’s important that this be done in a healthy way, not in snacks like chips or ice cream. Additionally, it is important to eat a good balance of fruits and vegetables to ensure nutritional needs are met, as well as extra amounts of protein and calcium. Doctors sometimes recommend supplementing nutrition while breastfeeding by continuing to take prenatal vitamins while the baby is nursing.
Protein and calcium are some of the most important aspects of proper nutrition while breastfeeding. Proteins should generally come from leaner sources, such as chicken, eggs, or tofu. Some doctors recommend that women avoid eating fish completely while breastfeeding, due to the mercury content that could be passed on to the baby. However, it is important to gain enough weight in the diet; Experts recommend healthy fats like those found in nuts, avocados, or olive oil, to name a few. Calcium can come from a number of sources, including a supplement, as well as food sources like cheese, milk, yogurt, or even certain vegetables like broccoli. In general, it is recommended that women who are breastfeeding try to get at least 1,000 mg of calcium per day.
Eating a balanced diet to ensure adequate nutrition while breastfeeding will also help women regain a healthy weight after delivery. It is important to eat the recommended daily amounts of fruits and vegetables per day while breastfeeding, as they contain essential nutrients and vitamins such as vitamin C, which is important. Whole grain breads, crackers, or cereals are also excellent sources of nutrition while breastfeeding. These foods help add calories and stimulate breast milk production without adding empty calories that will prevent weight loss or even contribute to weight gain.
Taking a multivitamin or continuing to take prenatal vitamins to supplement nutrition while breastfeeding may also be a good idea. Also, it’s important to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water, but avoid sugary drinks like soda. Any specific questions or nutritional concerns should be directed to the baby’s pediatrician, as it is very important to ensure that the baby’s nutritional needs are also met.
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