Nutrition Guide for Breastfeeding Mothers: Contribute to Your Baby's Health
Although you may have started your journey into motherhood the moment you felt it, you truly step into your new life with the breastfeeding process. Being a caregiver parent is one of the most important and challenging roles. However, with love, you can overcome all difficulties. Your nutrition during this period is crucial for both yourself and your baby. As a caregiver parent, while feeding your baby, you also share your nutrients with them. This sharing will contribute to your baby’s growth and development and help establish a wonderful bond between you.
The right to health is a concept that encompasses not only “physical well-being” but also “mental and social welfare”. Access to health services for women is hindered by barriers stemming from gender norms. Especially women’s sexual health and reproductive health encompass much more than individual health status and are of critical importance for the overall health of society.
BREASTFEEDING EXPENDS ENERGY
In breastfeeding women, energy expenditure increases depending on the frequency and amount of breastfeeding. Therefore, during breastfeeding, instead of restricting food intake excessively for weight loss, it is essential to prioritize breastfeeding and healthy eating. A woman who fully meets her baby’s needs with her milk secretes an average of 700-800 ml of milk per day. The energy and nutrient requirements equivalent to this milk should be increased by adding to the normal requirement. A breastfeeding woman expends an average of 500 extra calories per day.
THE QUALITY OF BREAST MILK IS AS IMPORTANT AS THE QUANTITY
One of the concerns that worries mothers is “Will my milk be enough?” The amount of breast milk is not only related to nutrition. To increase breast milk production, skin-to-skin contact with the baby, regular breastfeeding/nursing to empty the breast, adequate water intake, and sufficient food intake are crucial. In addition, a personalized nutrition plan should be established for quality milk.
At least 3-4 liters of fluid intake should be ensured to produce enough breast milk. Beverages such as compote and fruit drink can contribute to fluid intake in addition to water consumption.
The content of teas/foods claimed to increase breast milk should be carefully examined. Such foods should not be used without consulting a doctor/dietitian.
DO SWEET FOODS INCREASE BREAST MILK?
- Burcu NEGİZSOY ÖĞRETİCİ
- Dietitian Psychologist
