How to Eat Right While Breastfeeding

When you breastfeed, you pass on your nutrition to your baby. If you have a tendency to eat a lot of junk food, you need to drastically change your diet. In order for the baby to have good nutrition, the mother needs to eat right.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Eat regularly. It is important to not skip meals when you are breastfeeding. Ideally, you should eat several small meals over the course of the day.

2. Add in plenty of fruits and vegetables to your meals. Breastfeeding moms should consume five portions of fruits and vegetables daily.

3. Consume high fiber foods. Wholegrain breads and pastas will provide you with the extra energy that you need to breastfeed.

4. Get enough protein. Fish, chicken and lean meats will help you maintain a well balanced diet.

5. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day. This will help prevent dehydration since you are losing fluids during breastfeeding.

6. Watch out for foods that can cause allergies in your baby. Peanuts are known to cause reactions in breastfed babies; mothers often choose to avoid them while breastfeeding.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't drastically increase your caloric intake. Just because you are breastfeeding does not mean that you have to eat for two.
• Don't consume alcohol or caffeine. If you do partake, make sure it is only a moderate amount.
• Avoid dieting when you are breastfeeding. You will have low energy and it is not healthy for the baby.

[Allandra]

on 7/21/2007 I do not agree with drinking about 8 glasses a day. You can get fluids from other sources like vegetables and fruits. If your body does not wish to take more fluid in, you should listen to it. Drink when your body tells you. Certainly drink a glass of water (or juice) when you're breast feeding but don't go overboard with the huge intake of water. Consult with your dietian before proceeding.