Have you decided to breastfeed? Breastfeeding is so good for mama and baby but there are some things a breastfeeding mom should do to help keep herself healthy nutrition wise. Check out these 7 nutrition tips for breastfeeding moms.
Water is Your Best Friend
If there’s one nutritional tip a breastfeeding mom should take to heart it is drinking water. Although water is sometimes the last thing a mom wants to drink, it’s the very best.
Eat Your Veggies
The last thing you want to be told is to eat your veggies, but it’s so important. Your body is going to need those extra vitamins and nutrients to help make the breastmilk and give you energy.
Eating a Little More is Okay
Your body needs more calories as it prepares to breastfeed that tiny human. Eating an extra 300-500 calories a day might be a must to help keep your supply up. Pay attention to what your body needs and go with it. Try not to overeat or under eat and you’ll be golden.
Limit Caffeine
Caffeine is okay to drink while pregnant but too much of it can hurt baby’s stomach. Try to pick your battles when it comes to caffeine though. If you love coffee, don’t stress about it, but do cut back! If you have questions about caffeine, always talk to your doctor.
Iron & Protein are Important
When it comes to eating what’s best, make sure you intake plenty of iron and protein in your diet. Eggs and dairy are a great way to get in your protein and ultimate iron levels can be achieved by eating whole grain products and leafy veggies.
Keep Those Snacks Simple
Breastfeeding moms spend a lot of time with a nursling at their breast. Keep a lot of simple snacks close to you to help with your hunger. Nuts, string cheese, and carrots make incredibly simple snacks that make sense for breastfeeding moms.
Never, Ever Skip Meals
Most breastfeeding moms are lacking one thing and that’s time! Whatever you do, make sure you’re eating something at every meal. Set an alarm if you need to, this will help ensure you’re eating. Your body needs the nutrients and calories to produce milk for the little one you’re feeding.
What is one nutrition tip you can share with other breastfeeding moms?