NUTRITION TIPS FOR BREASTFEEDING MOMS TO MAINTAIN SUFFICIENT MILK SUPPLY

16/07/2020

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that infants be breastfed within the first hour after birth and should be exclusively breastfed for the first six months , then you can continue complementary feeding along with breastfeeding until your baby is 24 months old.

Babies who are exclusively and fully fed with breast milk for the first 6 months of life are more likely to achieve comprehensive development including both physical and intellectual capabilities, have the good immunity and low risk of getting infections and chronic diseases. During breastfeeding, you should follow a proper diet to ensure enough milk production for your baby.

Some nutrition tips for breastfeeding moms are as below:

Have 3 main meals and 1 – 2 snacks a day. For main meals, remember to eat the sufficient – balanced - diversified food groups every day. For snacks, you should eat some fruits, milk or dairy products such as yogurt, cheese, etc. instead of confectionery products.
Drink enough water, about 2 – 2.5 liters a day.
Essential micronutrients for moms:

+ Iron: Pregnant women use the source of iron storage in th body. Thus, you need to fill your iron storage after childbirth by consuming high bioavailable iron-rich foods, such as liver, eggs, scallops, blood cockle, etc.

+ Calcium: If you don’t get enough calcium, the mineral will be drawn from your bones to meet the extra demands of both you and your baby. This will weaken your bones and joints, places yourself at risk of osteoporosis as you age. Therefore, it’s necessary to include good sources of calcium in your diet such as fresh milk, dairy products, or calcium-fortified products such as calcium-fortified soy milk.

+ Folate (Vitamin B9): Found in beans (e.g.: mung beans, red beans, etc.).

+ Vitamin A: Found in leafy green vegetables and red/yellow/orange vegetables. In addition, the animal sources having high vitamin A include liver, eggs, eel, carp, etc.

You should not go on an over-restricted diet. Eating a variety of foods everyday offers you sufficient micronutrients. Besides, your baby get more diversified taste experience through breast milk, which hels her/him easily accept different kinds of foods during weaning.
Avoid alcohol, beer, coffee. Limit the intake of added sugar, greasy or fried foods because of the risk of being overweight/obese.
Create a reasonable plan of rest, keep your mind optimistic: Breast milk is secreted when you feel the most comfortable. It is recommended that you get 8 hours of sleep a day and do exercises for 30 – 60 minutes every day to boost your physical and mental health after childbirth.

At American International Hospital (AIH), our team of obstetricians and nutritionists work closely together to help you develop the most suitable care plan based on your specific conditions.

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