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Eating While Nursing
Smart Nutrition for Breastfeeding Moms
By Laurie Dove
"I was not hungrier while nursing as I suspected I might be," says Monson. "I was thirstier. I needed more liquids and was prone to dehydration." Swift recommends breastfeeding mothers drink plenty of liquids, such as juice, water, milk and soup to quench thirst. It is not necessary to force fluids beyond your thirst, but it is a good idea to drink something whenever you feel thirsty, she says. Grab something to drink while breastfeeding or keep a glass or mug of liquid near your favorite breastfeeding spot.
Even caffeinated beverages aren't off limits. However, caffeine may make baby jittery, irritable or cause difficulty sleeping, especially if you drink too many or drink too much quickly. If a breastfeeding mother enjoys caffeinated beverages, her intake should be limited to about two 8-ounce servings per day.
Weight-loss can be another concern for new mothers. In general, weight loss has not been found to affect breastmilk production, as long as it is accomplished with healthful foods. The Medical College of Georgia found that most breastfeeding mothers lose weight without embarking on a weight management regimen. Eighty percent of lactating women lose about 2 pounds each month during the first four to six months of breastfeeding.
Another reason to eat well-balanced meals while breastfeeding is to raise energy levels. A new mother's body is going through many changes, often operating with less sleep and more demands. "A healthy mom will have more energy than one who is eating junk food or not spacing out meals throughout the day," Trueman-Roche says. "So from the standpoint of having stamina for those long days, it's important for the breastfeeding mom to get a good, well-balanced diet.
