Nutritional Concerns of a Breastfeeding MotherThink of this as Breastfeeding Nutrition Central to address all the nutritional concerns of a breastfeeding mother. This includes special hints and tips for a good breastfeeding diet and exercise plan. If you have good eating and exercise habits, there is really no reason to make major changes while your are breast feeding. You do have to remember to eat and drink enough to keep yourself in good health so that you can take the very best care of your new infant. Eating well is a part of being a good mother to your new baby.
Breastfeeding Diet and Maternal NutritionOne of the most important things to remember is to take in lots of liquids. This is one of the biggest nutritional concerns of a breastfeeding mother. Your body will be giving your sweet baby the milk he or she needs, but you need to insure that there is enough left to keep mommy healthy.I kept a water bottle filled with ice next to the places where I nursed most often. Then each time I went to nurse I had a cold drink waiting there. Some mothers (like me!) need the disciple of a breastfeeding diet to follow. Just make sure it is appropriate for a breastfeeding mom. Don't try to lose weight too quickly by restricting calories. You will burn significantly more calories by breastfeeding so make sure you are eating enough. If you restrict calories or carbohydrates too much, your body may just go into survival mode and prevent you from losing weight and you may just end up decreasing your milk supply. Click here for some breastfeeding diet suggestions for nursing moms. Also, ask your doctor about any supplements or herbs you may be taking while nursing. While some may be helpful, others may raise your infant's susceptibility to allergies and stomach upset...and no one wants to give their baby a reason to have a upset tummy! OB/Gyn doctors and pediatricians are usually very helpful when addressing the nutritional concerns of a breastfeeding mother. Be sure to write your questions down as you think of them and take them along to the doctors office. (If I don't, I forget half of the things I wanted to ask when I get there!) Also check out our discussion of
foods to avoid when breastfeeding...
because sometimes our little ones may not like our food choices! ...or want to know what you SHOULD be eating? Our discussion about good maternal nutrition may help. ....or want to see our Our Top 10 Dieting Tips may help.
Breastfeeding and Exercise
Try exercise that is easy for you or something that you enjoyed pre-pregnancy. My favorite exercise became power walking the stroller. I would take my oldest out first thing every morning for a brisk walk. She enjoyed the fresh air and change of scenery and I got much needed exercise. If you are looking for some great tips on making the most of stroller walking, visit The Fitness-Walking-Guide.com Just be careful not to overdo it! I took a bike ride pulling my baby in the Burley too soon after my cesarean. Trust me...that is NOT a good idea. Take it slow. Related Articles:
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