Breastfeeding mamas, listen up! Here's what you need to know about your diet and I mean nutrition:
We all have energy requirements for our bodies to thrive and operate. Being pregnant, creating new tissues for a whole other human, and then the physical lactation process for breastfeeding - all require a certain amount of energy. How do we produce energy? Be well-nourished!
Extra calories in the diet for breastfeeding moms
While breastfeeding, you'll need about 500 extra calories per day (1) to keep up with your amazing milk-making machine. This is roughly the equivalent of an extra snack or serving of healthy food. Don't worry, this is just temporary and won't lead to unwanted weight gain – your body uses these calories efficiently for your little one.
Can Breastfeeding Moms Drink Protein Shakes?
Protein power
Yes, you do need additional protein. Your milk is packed with protein to help your baby grow strong. To keep up with production, aim for an extra 20 grams of protein each day (1). Low protein intake won't impact the amount of milk you make, but it might affect the quality of protein your baby gets. Fortunately, I have a couple of super simple options listed for you below.
No need to starve
If you have healthy fat stores, don't be afraid to lose weight gradually while breastfeeding. Your body can tap into those reserves to make milk for your little one without any harm.
Nutritious Choices for Breastfeeding Moms
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Biome Medic: Supports gut health and removes glyphosate. Tip: Use 1 daily instead of 2.
Power Shake: Green blend for detox and essential nutrients.
Apothe-Cherry: Tart cherries for sleep and inflammation support.
Did you know that Montmorency cherries contain high levels of polyphenolic compounds including flavonoids and anthocyanins that possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects?
Apothe-Cherry is the ONLY tart cherry juice I have tried that is truly effective for my sleep. I have hypnic jerks I suspect from years of high work stress and lack of self-care. This is the only natural product that has kept it at bay. I have wasted too much money on other liquid and pill cherry variations from Natural Grocers. Tip: Mix with BioFruit for UTI support. This stuff tastes fantastic.
Super Amino 23: Pre-digested protein for energy and recovery.
Barley Green Juice: Supports pH balance and milk production. A survey of midwives’ current practices in Switzerland and Canada where it was said to help milk flow and supply.
Rice Bran Solubles: Promotes healthy cholesterol and blood sugar. Tip: Great for smoothies and quelling nausea.
Organic Coconut Oil: Supports immune function and prevents Candida infections. Use for cooking and topically on stretch marks.
Products to Stay Away From Until Breastfeeding is Over:
Immuno-Max
Vir-U-Sure
Super CleansR
Daily Fiber
Fulvic Zeolite
White American Ginseng
40x Concentrate Aloe
Aloe Digest
Bio Regen (due to aloe vera)
Bio Relax
Can’t Beet This!
Super Life Formula
Control Spray/capsules
Chlorella (consult your doctor first)
Bee Energetic
Super Xanthin
Super Meal LOV
After Breastfeeding:
Bio Relax: Supports deep, restful sleep and tension relief while awake.
Can’t Beet This! Ditch the treated coffee beans and go with this delicious beetroot beverage choc full of natural energizing nutrients including Yerba Mate and Whole Coffee Fruit Extract.
Aloe Digest: I drink this every day before my lunch with some organic juice, some Green Spectrum powder, and Ionic Elements. Aloe Digest soothes the stomache and aids digestion.
Remember: Every mom is different. Listen to your body and find what works best for you. Always consult your doctor before introducing new products, especially during breastfeeding.
The bottom line
Eat a balanced, varied diet with extra calories and protein. Don't stress too much about losing weight right away, and talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
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