What certainly changes is the caloric value of your daily menu. Since you're providing nourishment to your beloved child, you need about 500 more calories per day.
Milk production itself is a significant energy cost for a woman's body. In the first 6 months of a baby's life, this process consumes approximately 670 kcal per day, and in subsequent months, approximately 400 kcal.
What to eat while breastfeeding? Pay particular attention to foods rich in protein, vitamins B, A, and C, selenium, and potassium. Don't restrict anything, and if you have any doubts, don't be afraid to ask a dietitian for advice.
Remember that losing weight while breastfeeding shouldn't be a new mother's primary concern. It's estimated that a woman loses approximately 0.8 kg (1.8 lbs) per month during the first few months of breastfeeding. This is a time when it's worth focusing on bonding with your baby and building positive emotions around it. There will be time to return to your pre-pregnancy figure.
What can't you eat while breastfeeding?
Just because there's no specific diet for breastfeeding mothers doesn't mean you can eat anything during this time. What can't you eat while breastfeeding? Alcohol is the most prominent on the list of prohibited foods. It passes into baby's milk. It's also important to significantly limit fast food, sweets, and strong coffee and tea. Be careful with raw meat and eggs.
Another myth is that drinking tea with so-called Bavarian milk has a positive effect on lactation. This is, of course, untrue, and the myth itself may have originated only because cow's milk was perceived as being similar to human milk. For mothers who dislike the taste yet force themselves to drink it, this can be counterproductive. Negative emotions will certainly prevent them from achieving a state of relaxation, which is one of the key factors in breastfeeding.
Accessories necessary for breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is the natural and only way to feed a baby up to 6 months of age, recommended by the World Health Organization. It provides your little one with all the nutrients they need for growth and also allows for bonding. To facilitate this beautiful act, it's worth equipping yourself with, among other things:
- nursing pillow ,
- soft bib made of organic cotton ,
- soothing ointment for cracked nipples ,
- nursing bra ,
- hydrogel overlays ,
- reusable breastfeeding pads ,
- a shirt with easy access to the breasts,
- electric breast pump .
You can find more essential accessories for a young mother, newborn and older child in our Kokosek store.
