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What drinks are good for breastfeeding moms?

Hydration and Nutrition for Breastfeeding Moms
Breastfeeding is a demanding process that requires mothers to pay close attention to their nutrition and hydration. The right drinks can play a crucial role in supporting both the mother’s health and her milk supply. Here’s a closer look at what beverages are beneficial for breastfeeding moms.
The Importance of Hydration
Water is essential. It’s the most straightforward and vital drink for breastfeeding mothers. Experts recommend that breastfeeding women increase their fluid intake by about 700ml per day to stay adequately hydrated. Dehydration can affect milk production, so keeping a water bottle handy is a practical tip for nursing moms.
Nutrient-Rich Options
In addition to water, there are several other drinks that can provide nutritional benefits:
– Bone Broth: This nutrient-dense option is not only hydrating but also rich in protein and minerals. It supports digestion and skin health, making it a great choice for busy breastfeeding moms who may struggle to meet their protein needs.
– Herbal Teas: Certain herbal teas, such as fenugreek or blessed thistle, are believed to help increase milk supply. However, it’s essential to choose caffeine-free options and consult with a healthcare provider before trying new herbs.
– Smoothies: A well-balanced smoothie can be a quick meal replacement, packed with fruits, vegetables, and protein sources like yogurt or nut butter. This can help breastfeeding moms get the nutrients they need while also being convenient.
Caffeine and Alcohol Considerations
While caffeine is generally safe in moderation, breastfeeding mothers should be cautious. High caffeine intake can lead to irritability in infants and may affect sleep patterns. It’s advisable to limit caffeine to about 300mg per day, which is roughly equivalent to three cups of coffee.
Alcohol, on the other hand, is best avoided. It can pass into breast milk and may affect the baby’s development. If a mother chooses to drink, it’s recommended to wait at least two hours after consuming alcohol before breastfeeding to minimize its effects on the infant.
Drinks to Avoid
Certain beverages should be limited or avoided altogether. Diet soft drinks and sugary beverages can contribute to poor nutrition and may not provide the necessary hydration or nutrients that breastfeeding mothers need. Additionally, some mothers may need to avoid specific foods and drinks that could cause allergic reactions or digestive issues in their babies.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers should prioritize hydration with water and consider nutrient-rich options like bone broth and smoothies to support their health and milk supply. While moderate caffeine can be acceptable, alcohol should be approached with caution. By making informed choices about their beverages, breastfeeding moms can ensure they are nourishing themselves and their babies effectively.

What can I drink to lose belly fat while breastfeeding?

1) Drink At Least 8 Cups Of Water Every Day
And it’s especially important for breastfeeding moms. Water helps your body naturally shed unwanted pounds because water: Contributes to regular body functions, like circulation, digestion, regulation of body temperature, transportation of nutrients, and milk production.

Is Gatorade good for breastfeeding?

There’s really nothing inherently milk-promoting in a sports drink like Gatorade. But the Gatorade may be fulfilling a need that is not being met in other ways. In this case, if a mom sees increased production with a sports drink, it typically means she wasn’t getting enough fluids or electrolytes in her diet.

What foods decrease milk supply?

Top 5 food / drinks to avoid if you have a low milk supply:

  • Carbonated beverages.
  • Caffeine – coffee, black tea, green tea, etc.
  • Excess Vitamin C & Vitamin B –supplements or drinks with excessive vitamin C Or B (Vitamin Water, Powerade, oranges/orange juice and citrus fruits/juice.)

What juice is good for milk supply?

100% Orange Juice
Plus, this juice is a good source of hydration—a factor that is critical during lactation too. Just make sure to choose juice that contains no added sugars and is made from real oranges—not orange-flavored “drinks”—to ensure you are getting the nutrients you need.

What is the best thing to drink while breastfeeding?

Drink when you are thirsty, and drink more if your urine appears dark yellow. You might drink a glass of water or another beverage every time you breastfeed. Be wary of juices and sugary drinks, however. Too much sugar can contribute to weight gain — or sabotage your efforts to lose pregnancy weight.

What not to drink when you are breastfeeding?

It’s not just tea and coffee that contains caffeine – it’s in chocolate, and various energy drinks and soft drinks. It’s sensible to cut caffeine out while breastfeeding because it’s a stimulant so can make your baby restless. If you do drink caffeine, try not to have more than 300mg a day.

What fruits increase breast milk?

Apricots and dates
Eating apricots and dates can increase prolactin, which is the hormone that tells your body to produce milk. Apricots contain essential nutrients such as dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C and potassium. Fresh is better than canned. If you have to go with canned, avoid apricots packed in syrups.

Does drinking more water increase milk supply?

It is important to listen to your body and drink when you feel thirsty. Drinking excess fluids will not help increase your milk supply.

Which drink is best for feeding a mother?

Best Drinks for Breastfeeding Moms

  • 1. Water
  • 2. Herbal teas
  • 3. Milk Moon Restorative Tonic
  • 4. Bone broth
  • 5. Lactation smoothie
  • 6. Mushroom Coffee

What can I drink to boost breast milk?

6 of the Best Drinks for Breastfeeding Moms. Key takeaways: While breastfeeding, your body has higher nutrient and fluid needs. Plain water, cow’s milk, herbal tea, smoothies, coconut water, and juice are good drink options during lactation.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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