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During your pregnancy, your body nourished your growing baby through the food that you ate. Now that your baby is born, and if you have chosen to breastfeed, your baby will still depend on your diet—and the milk you produce—in order to thrive outside the womb. Here, a few simple guidelines on eating right.
A breastfeeding mother is in reality, eating for two, but that doesn’t mean you need to consume an excessive amount of food. During lactation, your body will adjust to utilise nutrients more efficiently, ensuring that both baby and you have enough of what’s required. In the initial period after delivery, your body will also tap into the fat stores remaining from pregnancy for the extra energy necessary to produce milk. What you eat does make a difference, however—and you need between 300 and 500 extra calories a day to make milk for baby.
It’s recommended that you try to eat as healthfully as you can while you are breastfeeding. It’s been drilled into us long enough (and proven too) that processed foods, foods that are overly salty or sweet, as well as carbonated drinks are typically laden in fat and sugar. These are known as “empty calories” too, as while the consumer may rack them up quickly and easily, they are disproportionately low in nutritional value and are also the common culprits to myriad health woes.
Coming up with a sensible eating plan that takes breastfeeding into consideration can be as straightforward as simply including more of the nutritious foods that you normally eat. Opt for nutrient-dense foods (more nutrition per calorie) that fill you up for longer and doesn’t result in energy crashes. Because of the extra nutritional needs of mother and baby, continue your prenatal vitamin supplements during breastfeeding, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
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For balanced nourishment on a daily basis, you should aim to eat from the five basic food groups:
* whole grain bread, cereal, rice and pasta: 6-11 servings daily
* vegetables: 3-5 servings daily
* fruits: 2-4 servings daily
* fish, meat, poultry, eggs, beans and nuts: 2-3 servings daily
* milk, yogurt, cheese and other dairy: 2-3 servings daily
But that’s not all. For even more balanced nutrition, portion the foods across these five groups into three basic calorie groups: carbohydrates, proteins and healthy fats. Carbohydrates should make up 50-55 percent of your total daily calories intake, protein should constitute 15-20 percent, while healthy fats should offer around 30 percent of your total daily calories.
While most of your nutrients should be preferably derived from fresh and natural sources across these basic food and calorie groups, pesticides and other agricultural or industrial pollutants may be of concern to some people. As a result, it is not uncommon for breastfeeding mothers to zealously ensure that the food they eat is organic and are non-genetically modified (GMO) as well. These failsafe options are however, costlier than average farm-grown produce. If you’re nursing and concerned, you still can do your bit to minimise the possibility of any harmful substances entering your milk from the food you eat. Avoid seafood that comes from contaminated waters, or simply minimise consuming fish skin which is believed to contain more concentrated levels of possible toxins than the flesh. The same applies for the fatty portions of meat and poultry. Also, always peel and thoroughly wash all fresh fruits and veggies to ensure their surface is free from any fertilisers or pesticides.
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Calcium counts
Breastfeeding mothers also require plenty of calcium (at least 1,000mg a day), as intake of this vital mineral will grow and strengthen your baby’s developing bones. Some mothers fear that breastfeeding may actually deplete their calcium reserves faster than usual, but in fact, nursing may actually protect your bones against osteoporosis. According to some studies, the bone density of breastfeeding mothers returns to pre-pregnancy or even higher levels during and after weaning. On the contrary, studies have found that women who did not breastfeed tend to have a higher risk of hip fractures after menopause.
If you are still concerned about your calcium levels, you may resort to taking a supplement. However, obtaining calcium from a variety of foods is just as ideal, if not better. Also, fret not if you’re not a fan of milk—drinking it doesn’t mean your production will be far superior; cows after all, don’t drink milk to produce milk! Apart from milk, you still obtain calcium from other dairy sources such as cheese and yoghurt (which may also be more forgiving to those with lactose intolerances). Even “unlikely” foods such as sardines, salmon, bean curd, soybeans, raisins, figs, broccoli and even carrot juice can provide adequate amounts of this bone-building requisite too, as long as there’s a wholesome variety!
Integral iron
Besides calcium, another mineral that is essential in the diet of a lactating, post-partum mother is iron. This is necessary not just to replenish any blood loss during delivery, but iron also is needed to make sufficient oxygen-carrying red blood cells for circulation throughout the body. Having oxygen-rich blood in your system combats fatigue (and new moms need all the energy they can muster!) and even bolsters your immunity to ward off infections. Iron contributes to healthy skin, hair, nails and cells too—so that you can prolong that pregnancy glow! Nursing mothers should consume such foods as red meat, poultry, fish, soy products, green leafy veggies and iron-fortified cereals. Ensure you have sufficient amounts of vitamin C too, which helps improve the absorption of iron from food. This is commonly found in most fruits and veggies.
While iron should remain one of the mainstays in a balanced diet, you may be surprised that your recommended intake is only 9mg if you’re breastfeeding; whereas the required amount during pregnancy is 27mg! That’s because breastfeeding actually has an iron-preserving effect that suppresses your period and prevents you from menstruating. Hence there is no pressing need to replenish iron in your body as the levels are not being rapidly depleted.
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Drink up!
A breastfeeding mom’s best drink? Water! It doesn’t have calories, and it’s perhaps the most convenient and excellent way to keep optimally hydrated. Breast milk is, after all, a liquid; so it makes sense that breastfeeding mothers are usually advised to increase their fluid intake. It’s interesting to note, though, that drinking more doesn’t mean you will start producing more milk. First, the type of fluid also matters. Caffeinated drinks have a diuretic effect which causes you to pass more urine—not to mention traces of valuable vitamins and minerals, which are flushed out as well. In fact, excessively consuming fluids can actually hinder milk production as this also increases urination and fluid loss.
Researchers from the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics conducted a study where breastfeeding mothers were given 25 percent more fluid than their original baseline intake for at least a week. Although they were drinking more, the mothers’ milk production did not change significantly and in fact dropped slightly, albeit at levels that were not “statistically significant”.
Overall, what this means is that while additional fluids won’t hurt or harm, you don’t need to obsessively monitor how much you are drinking.
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Mom’s Snack Cravings: An Afterword
Although we know which titbits are bad, worse, or off-limits even, we just can’t help ourselves sometimes! How about this then? Rather than rule out “sinful snacking” altogether then feel guilty when that happens, it’s simply best to cut ourselves a little slack as new mothers. This means minimise rather than eliminate, and to permit small quantities that are spaced out— for example, an after-dinner scoop of ice-cream is fine twice a week, instead of binge eating an entire tub of Ben & Jerry’s in one sitting then beating yourself up about it non-stop. Chances are, this constant bemoaning might make you feel rotten to the extent that all your best intentions evaporate and you find yourself stuck in the same frustrating cycle.
The truth is, when it comes to losing post-pregnancy weight, we can’t have our cake and eat it too. Let’s face it: we now have a new baby to nurse and nourish, and that real responsibility really does require a lifestyle change. Breastfeeding can be a time-consuming and even stressful affair for some mothers, and obsessing about slipping back into your pre-pregnancy jeans won’t do you any favours either. What’s important is that you continue to nourish yourself and baby with the right foods in the right amounts, AND with allowance for occasional slip-ups. Think fuelling up and going the distance, instead of filling up just for the sake of moving.
If and when you do slip up, try rationalising with yourself why that happened instead of justifying it away and in so doing, sliding further down the slippery slope. Do so, however, only if such incidents affect you greatly. It really depends. Some moms take it in their stride and move on; for other moms, it may have been a treat or reward for their milk production efforts; and there are still moms who snack excessively when they’re in a negative mood.
To encourage responsible and moderate snacking, identify the reasons (or triggers) for these instances of “extra eating”. Find healthier alternatives—yoghurt to ice cream, whole wheat crackers to chocolate cream biscuits, baked snacks, not fried. Some people are not necessarily drawn to taste but textures, too, so if you like chewy candy, try a healthier option like some dried raisins or figs instead (the latter even has tiny seeds for added bite!).
Who says snacking is always bad? Make those calories count, and your body, milk production and your precious baby will tally up in thanks!
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Read on for the answers to some frequently-asked-questions about breastfeeding.
With the sheer amount of breastfeeding information and literature available, it is only natural for new mothers to feel overwhelmed. Regardless of whether mothers face challenges or have a smooth-sailing journey as they experience lactation for the first time, some common questions are bound to surface surrounding breastfeeding. Here, we address several, which will hopefully clear any doubts and bolster your confidence as you nurse and nourish your baby.
Q: How soon should I begin breastfeeding?
A: It is advised that attempts should be made to get your baby to latch on within an hour of giving birth. Even if you have delivered via caesarean section, you should be receptive to nursing your newborn as soon as possible, even if it’s in the operation room as you’re being stitched up. While this might seem too soon, the timing is to take advantage of the baby’s wakeful state immediately after birth. After this initial window period, your newborn will spend much of the next 24 hours asleep, which might make feeding more challenging.
Offering baby the breast sooner rather than later also establishes faster bonding with skin-to-skin contact. Your baby will also benefit from consuming colostrum, which is the thick, yellowish pre-milk your body will produce for about three to four days before breast milk appears. Colostrum is rich in immunity-boosting nutrients to protect your baby against infections.
Q: How frequently should I nurse my baby?
A: Breastfeeding is encouraged to be done on-demand, but the more you nurse, the more milk you can expect to produce. This is especially crucial in the early weeks to ensure a steady stream of milk. On average, you should breastfeed your baby an average of every two hours around the clock for the first month to six weeks. A very young infant is also unable to consume excessive amounts at one go, hence the need to feed more frequently. A baby will usually stop nursing once it is full, but ensure that one breast is emptied before offering the other, so that your baby can reach the nutritious hind-milk, which is produced in larger quantities during the later stages of feeding.
While on-demand nursing can feel gruelling at times, rest assured that your baby will be able to take in more amounts as his stomach grows in capacity, which will increase the lapse of time between feedings. Just remind yourself of the golden rule to nurse your baby as frequently as you can in the early days and weeks to regulate your milk production supply until it reaches the right level.
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Q: Is there such a thing as being unable to breastfeed?
A: As long as a woman has given birth, she will have the ability to nurse, even if her baby was breech, she has multiples, or has had a C-section. The let-down reflex, where a mother’s milk is released, may take longer to occur or feel slower in certain women depending on individual circumstances, but despite this, almost every woman should eventually be able to nurse her baby as long as the breast is offered and the baby latches on to suckle. This applies even to women with inverted nipples or who are small-breasted. Women with small breasts simply have less fatty tissue which has no effect on the ability to produce milk; this relies instead on the presence of mammary glands which are found in breasts of all shapes and sizes. Also, mothers need not worry whether any of their breastfeeding woes are hereditary as this condition is never genetic. Rather, the issue of insufficient milk (note: milk is never completely absent) can usually be traced back to mismanagement of the problem such as incorrect feeding techniques, giving up too early, infrequent nursing, poor diet and lack of support.
Q: Now that I know milk production is usually not an issue, how can I tell if I am producing enough to feed my baby?
A: As earlier mentioned, the more frequently your baby nurses during the first weeks of life, the more your breasts will be stimulated to produce milk. This fact alone ensures that most nursing mothers will produce sufficient milk to meet the nutritional needs of their babies. However, if your milk output remains a cause of concern, you can use a breast pump several times a day for 30-45 minutes before nursing your baby. The suction of the pump mimics the suckling of your baby, which will encourage the let-down reflex (triggering of milk flow).
You can also monitor the number of times your baby is wetting or soiling his diaper. Approximately seven to eight wet diapers daily is a good sign of sufficient hydration, along with between three to five bowel movements. Your baby will also gain weight, but you can check with your paediatrician if he is putting on enough. On average, infants will gain 500g a month, or about 125g a week. Some babies will also fill out more noticeably than others.
Mothers can also find reassurance by observing baby while he is nursing: there will be suckling and swallowing actions; some milk may dribble out of his mouth as he swallows; he appears satisfied after each feed; and your breasts will also feel noticeably softer after being drained of milk. Initially, some women’s breasts may leak between feedings, another sign of sufficient milk production. However, this will usually subside after a few months and is not a cause of concern if the other signs are taken into consideration. It just means your milk production has stabilised and is now established at a comfortable level.
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Q: Why do my nipples hurt when my baby is nursing?
A: Experiencing pain during breastfeeding usually means your baby has latched on incorrectly. Over time, the vigorous suckling that is repeatedly applied on the nipples can lead to the skin becoming raw and cracked, so it’s best to get baby in the right position from the start. Your baby’s mouth should not only cover your entire nipple, but most of the areola as well. Ensure that your infant’s head and body are properly supported, and that both your stomachs are touching during the feeding session, with baby lying on his side. Your comfort is important too during extended periods of nursing, so make sure you’re relaxed and use pillows to prop yourself up or to support your position.
If your nipples still feel tender, try rubbing in breast milk onto them and allow them to air dry after nursing. You can also invest in soothing gel pads to insert into your nursing bra in-between feeds to reduce chaffing. If the problem persists, you may schedule an appointment with the hospital at any time for a follow-up consultation with a lactation specialist who will further advise you on correct breastfeeding techniques.
Q: Why have my breasts grown hard, swollen and even painful?
A: Besides cracked nipples, another physical discomfort that adds to breastfeeding woes is the problem of engorgement. In her book, Breastfeeding: A Guide for the Medical Profession, Dr. Ruth Lawrence identifies three main reasons for engorgement: “congestion and increased vascularity (the physiologic response that follows removal of the placenta and does not depend on suckling); accumulation of milk, also a physiologic response to placental removal; and edema (swelling and fluid retention).”
Breasts may become full to the extent that they feel rock-hard and painful, with some women even reporting a sensation of heat and swelling extending to their underarms. Unfortunately, engorgement will not resolve by itself without intervention; in order for it to subside, the breasts must be emptied of this excess fluid.
Days after delivery, your breasts will steadily build up milk and baby should be draining their volume at around the same rate as the milk is produced. This is why the first week is so crucial as your milk flow is still being established. As milk production kicks in, it is normal to feel a growing sense of fullness, and this is also when it is critical to continue nursing frequently and ensure that baby properly latches on with the correct breastfeeding techniques. Some fullness is common as your milk increases during the first week, but it should subside with proper positioning and latching on, frequent feeding, and lots of rest.
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Q: I am experiencing engorgement. What can I do to relieve this?
A: While some mothers may faithfully adhere to a frequent nursing schedule to prevent engorgement from occurring, the problem may still arise (for example, you may experience a sudden spurt in milk production on the third or fourth day). When this happens, don’t worry. Instead, avoid engorgement from advancing with some simple measures, and above all else, don’t let up on breastfeeding. If your baby has still not established a regular feeding routine (which is common in the first few days), resort to using an electric breast pump every two to three hours to release enough milk. Don’t worry that pumping will trigger over-production of milk as you are only doing this to ease the pressure and fullness.
Besides giving yourself some relief from any growing discomfort, your aim is also to soften your breasts adequately. This is to help your baby latch on correctly as it becomes more difficult for him to grasp and suck in your areola with his mouth if your breasts are too full and hard. Engorgement will then be exacerbated when baby is able to suck only on your nipple because this will actually encourage more milk to be produced, but without stimulation of the surrounding areola tissue, the milk cannot flow as freely, hence leading to build-up in the ducts. Ironically, clogged milk ducts may eventually lead to decreased supply as the blockage prevents them from functioning normally.
Alternatively, gently hand expressing, massaging your breasts in a circular motion and applying a warm compress before a feeding session are other techniques that will be helpful in softening swollen breasts. To ease the pain and tenderness in between nursing, it is advised to use a cold compress instead. The cold will alleviate the feeling of heat and pain in your breasts and most helpful of all, reduce tissue swelling (which heat can actually aggravate). You can even try refrigerating a head of cabbage, stripping it of its leaves then fitting a cold leaf around each breast until it wilts (this remedy is entirely anecdotal and not based on research but generations of women claim that it works).
If you really must use heat for relief, aim intermittent jets of warm (not hot) water to the sore areas whilst in the shower.
In severe cases, milk ducts that have not been drained will experience inflammation. This may manifest as a sore, tender and painful lump in your breast. Usually, plugged ducts will not be accompanied by a fever, but if the problem persists, it could eventually lead to a breast infection called mastitis, which presents with flu-like symptoms such as body aches, chills, nausea, fatigue, and indeed, fever. Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics that are safe for breastfeeding, while paracetamol will help bring down your temperature. Lactation mastitis usually affects one breast at a time.
Engorgement should be viewed seriously and at first signs, steps must be taken to minimise it before it progresses. If you have enjoyed smooth nursing and this suddenly happens, take it in your stride. It is likely your body’s way of telling you to make adjustments to your feeding techniques, frequency or even your lifestyle. Unless otherwise advised, continue to breastfeed your baby as mother’s milk—even with engorged boobs—is still best!
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Breastfeeding may come naturally to some mothers and their babies; for others, however, it can take a fair amount of time, patience, and training. So, here we talk about some useful breastfeeding tips for new moms.
Getting used to this new feeling is the most important part about breastfeeding, but here are some other tips on breastfeeding that are equally important:
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Breastfeeding is one of the biggest gifts that only you can give your baby, but remember that it does require patience and practice, so stick in there and keep trying.
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Article written by Debolina Raja
Your body undergoes a lot of changes during pregnancy – apart from the growing baby bump; other changes are ushered in during pregnancy. Dealing with all of it can be tough, especially for first-time moms. Many-a-time you may not even know if what you’re experiencing is normal or something you should be concerned about. Mastitis is one such example.
Mastitis in nursing mothers occurs due to inflammation of breast tissues. The inflammation can lead to bacterial infection and affect your breast adversely. Having mastitis is extremely miserable. Usually, mastitis affects just one breast but it can also occur in both the breasts at a time. It mostly occurs in the first three months after you deliver the baby. Every 1 in 10 breastfeeding mothers tends to suffer from mastitis. Also, you can suffer from the inflammation more than once. It has also been found that women suffering from cancer or AIDS or conditions that impair the immune system are more likely to be affected by mastitis as opposed to healthy women.
Just like other infections, mastitis occurs when a specific bacteria enters the body. Usually, mastitis occurs when bacteria that are usually found on the skin, enter the nipple through small cracks. These bacteria then replicate in the breast tissues in the areas nearby the milk ducts and cause inflammation, pain, swelling and tenderness. In case of severe infection, the milk glands may also get blocked.
Mastitis is usually caused by the bacteria staphylococcus aureus. It is estimated that 1-3% of breastfeeding women develop this infectious condition.
Mastitis occurs due to milk buildup in the breast because of the faster production of milk than its removal i.e. milk stasis. Milk stasis occurs when the baby does take enough milk from your breast when you latch her improperly to your breast. Some of the prominent causes of mastitis are as follow.
How to identify that you are suffering from mastitis while breastfeeding? Find below some common symptoms of mastitis in nursing moms.
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Mastitis can, in no way, cause harm to your baby. The swelling and tenderness of the breast may make it uncomfortable for you, but that’s the only downside when it comes to this infectious condition. It is also perfectly safe to feed your baby from a breast affected by mastitis- even if your baby does swallow the bacteria, they will get killed by the acid in her stomach.
The best way to tackle mastitis is to continue breastfeeding your baby. It may be a bit painful to feed your baby from a tender, swollen breast, but in turn, it ensures that the milk ducts do not get blocked, and will also relieve the engorgement.
If you follow the right line of treatment as soon as you learn you are suffering from mastitis, you can minimize the symptoms and effects of mastitis. Find below some effective treatments for mastitis in nursing moms.
1. Feed Baby From Mastitis Affected Breast:
Keep breastfeeding your baby from the affected breast, even if you experience great pain. If you stop feeding your baby from the affected breast, it worsens the condition. If continuing to feed your baby from the affected breast is making no difference, better see your doctor as soon as possible.
2. Latch On Your Baby Properly:
When feeding your baby, latch your baby appropriately on your breast. You can also attempt different positions when breastfeeding to ensure that your baby latches on better.
3. Breastfeed Your Baby Often:
Breastfeeding your baby as often as your baby needs can help reduce mastitis effectively. Offer you baby 8 to 12 breastfeeds every day. Also, express milk with your hand or a pump after feeding, if your baby didn’t have enough milk, to treat your sore nipples.
4. Massage Your Breasts:
While your baby is breastfeeding, massage your breasts gently to help the milk to flow. Stroke the lumpy area of your breast gently. Avoid vigorous massage as it can only make the condition worse.
5. Have Medications And Fluids:
Drink plenty of fluids and rest a lot to treat mastitis effectively. Consult your doctor and have prescribed painkillers. Ibuprofen and paracetamol can help minimize the pain and inflammation substantially. Also, use a warm or cold compress to relieve pain and soreness. Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes or sleeping in a position that puts pressure on your breasts.
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Article written by Manjiri Kochrekar
Do you crave for sugar or fried foods while breastfeeding? Don’t worry! You aren’t the only one. Food cravings during pregnancy and lactation are quite common for women. Read our post and learn more about food cravings while breastfeeding.
As a lactating mom, you will need extra nutrition and an additional 500 kcal to produce milk for your little darling. The need for more calories and your tough schedule can trigger food cravings. Here are some reasons for food cravings during breastfeeding and how to handle them with ease.
Inadequate sleep affects your brain’s ability to make decisions. The frontal lobe, which controls your decision-making process, experiences impaired activity due to sleep deprivation. But the opposite is true for brain regions that govern motivation, desire, and rewards. The heightened activity in these centers makes certain foods more desirable. As a new mom, you probably function on just a few hours of sleep every day. Sleep deprivation can make you crave foods sugary and fatty foods. Eating more of comfort or decadent foods satisfy the urges of the reward centers in your brain.
Breastfeeding moms tire easily. Lack of sleep and constant care can tire you, and the fatigue can lead to food cravings.
Prolonged stress can increase cortisol production, which triggers your appetite and your desire to eat . We understand that motherhood stresses you out, but the stress can last for months. Sleep deprivation and fatigue only add to your stress. Eating sugary or fatty foods temporarily lowers your body’s stress levels. The instant gratification and relief from stress is an effective way of keeping anxiety at bay.
Breastfeeding women may not always be able to curb their cravings. But what you can do is manage these breastfeeding cravings and eat a healthy diet during this special time.
For breastfeeding women, it’s always better to satisfy the food cravings than to resist them all the time. It is a recipe for more stress, which you do without at this time in your life. The key here is portion control and balancing cravings with nutritious foods.
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Article written by Rakhee M
Are you a first-time mom who is breastfeeding her little one? Do you worry that taking antibiotics while your baby is still breastfeeding can hurt not just you, but your baby as well? Are you unsure about the safety of taking antibiotics while breastfeeding?
If these questions have you worried, you might want to read our post below. As a breastfeeding mother, it is obvious that you’ll be highly selective about anything that you eat and drink, including medicines. So, if you are looking for answers regarding the safety of taking antibiotics while nursing your baby, scroll down and get them here.
The practice of treating different conditions with an antibiotic has undergone many changes. Doctors are increasingly wary of the over-exposure to antibiotics, which causes a lack of resistance to germs and disease-causing agents. Unless it is required, your doctor will not prescribe you an antibiotic, especially when you are a breastfeeding, mother.
While you are breastfeeding, your health is extremely important, as any infection that you get may pose a health risk to your baby. Most antibiotics that doctors prescribe breastfeeding mothers are small doses, and your doctor will always take into account that you are feeding your baby. While it is safe to have some antibiotics even when you are breastfeeding, there can be instances when taking certain antibiotics may induce side effects for you or your little one.
While you are taking antibiotics while breastfeeding stage, there is a definite chance of the medication passing onto your infant through your breast milk. In most cases, the dosage will be too small to affect your baby. To make sure that your doctor gives you an antibiotic as a last resource, tell her that you are a breastfeeding mom.
Almost any medicine that you take will be present in your bloodstream, and will also transfer to your breast milk to some level. The exact amount of medication that will pass into your breast milk will depend on the dosage of the medication that you are taking and how often you take it. In most cases, the medications that you take will be present in your breast milk in small quantities, which will not pose a threat to your baby during breastfeeding. However, there are certain drugs that can become highly concentrated once they come in contact with your breast milk. It is extremely important that your doctor conducts some tests to check your suitability to the antibiotic before she prescribes it.
While it is true that the amount of dosage your doctor will prescribe you for your antibiotic course is the most crucial bit, but your baby’s age and overall health also plays a crucial role. Being exposed to the medication in your breast milk can have a different effect on your baby depending on age and health. Here are a few pointers that may help you judge the effect of your antibiotic intake on your baby while you are nursing him:
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Most medicines are considered to be safe while you are breastfeeding, but it is important to consult your doctor before you take anything. Your doctor will check yours and the baby’s health and will also check the effect of the suggested medication on your breast milk and your baby.
Here are a few pointers that will help you determine whether you should continue breastfeeding while on antibiotics or whether you should talk to your doctor about an alternate solution:
While it is mostly safe to take some amount of antibiotics during breastfeeding, it can cause some side effects in your baby. Here are a few common side effects you may notice in your little one as a result of the residual medication in your breast milk:
In most cases, the above symptoms are not serious enough and will go away without any medical intervention. In case, your baby continues to be in discomfort or if you feel it has an effect on your baby’s breastfeeding or sleeping schedule, make sure to speak to your health care provider about it.
If you are put on an antibiotic course while you are still breastfeeding, here are a few symptoms you should watch out for in your baby:
While you are visiting your doctor for a checkup, it is important to ask the following questions before you are on an antibiotic course:
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Article written by Debolina Raja
Healthy lactation is vital. As your breast milk is packed with all the vital nutrients essential for your baby’s well being and growth.
A healthy lifestyle and a balanced nutritional diet are thus very important for you. With the arrival of the new bundle of joy, ensuring her proper growth and development is the prime concern of you as a mother.
The key principle for a healthy breastfeeding diet, is balance. You need to eat a well-balanced diet, which contains sufficient amounts of all food groups.
Grains – Choose whole grain bread and rice as they contain more fiber and nutrients
Fruits and vegetables – Choose bright colored ones as they offer plenty of antioxidants and vitamins. Eat raw fruits and vegetables, as they are the most nutritious.
Proteins – Choose lean meat, fish, eggs and beans as they provide the right amount of protein you require for the body. Include fish rich in omega-3’s like salmon.
Vitamins and Minerals – Low-fat milk and yogurt are fortified with many essential vitamins and minerals.
Though a new mom is cautioned to eat non-spicy food in order to keep breast milk safe for the baby, there are certain foods that are very helpful for her to heal quickly and maintain good health. some essential must have foods to include in the diet for breastfeeding mothers.
Leafy green vegetables like spinach, broccoli, etc., are storehouses of Vitamin A, Vitamin C and iron. They are the best diet for breastfeeding mother, which are important for a baby’s growth. These low calorie vegetables are also an excellent source of calcium and healthy antioxidants, important for both you and your baby.
Fruits are rich sources of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Vitamin C helps in wound healing and is thus important for new moms who have had a C Section. Hence it is advised to increase the intake of citrus fruits like oranges, tomatoes, etc., in your diet. Fruits like apple and banana help to increase the energy level in the body and help remain healthy.
Eggs are a perfect source of meeting your body’s regular protein requirement. They are also a vital dietary source of Vitamin D. These together help in the development, growth and strengthening of your infant’s bones and muscles and hence are a must in the diet of a new mom.
To ensure proper milk production and maintain adequate energy levels in your body you need to stay well hydrated. Dehydration is one of the major issues faced by lactating mothers that can reduce milk production, cause fatigue and drop in stamina. You, as a new mommy, should drink juices, water, soups, milk, etc., sufficiently. However caffeinated drinks like coffee and tea should be avoided.
Whole grain cereals like oatmeal, brown rice, barley, etc., is fortified source of essential nutrients like proteins, vitamins, iron and other minerals. They provide energy and stamina to you; help you to relieve post partum symptoms (if any), while also helping in the overall growth and development of your baby.
Your diet during breastfeeding must include generous amounts of low fat dairy products like milk, yogurt, etc. Apart from being a rich source of Vitamin B and D, dairy products are one of the best sources of calcium. Calcium is required for your baby’s bone structure development and equally essential for the mothers well being. If you are lactose intolerant mothers, soy milk is good for you.
Lean meats from fish and chicken are rich in vital nutrients. They help to provide DHA and essential fatty acids to you and help in developing, your baby’s nervous system and boosts overall growth. All the other nutrients present in lean meat promote recovery and general well being of new mommy as well.
Garlic has been used for ages by lactating mothers to increase milk production in their bodies. Adding garlic to your food not only makes it tasty but strengthens your immune system and boosts lactation. Its anti microbial and anti oxidant properties help to battle infection and improve milk supply in your body.
Carrots are enriched with carbohydrates and potassium, both of which help boost energy and stamina in lactating mothers. They are a vital source of beta Carotene which is required by you during lactation period. Antioxidants in carrots also help to shed off the rigid baby weight and thus are a must have in the diet of new moms.
Legumes or pulses are a rich source of proteins and iron content, especially for vegetarian/vegan mothers. Beans, peas, lentils, peanuts, kidney beans, alfalfa and black beans are fine examples of legumes. They are also gas inducing foods, and hence should be included in moderation, especially if the new mom had a C-section.
The above ten super-foods can be easily incorporated into breastfeeding mother diet. It is advisable to eat home-made food that has been prepared with minimal spices and additives, so that the baby does not get fed indirectly with too much spice or complex food (via breast milk).
You should follow a routine, and remember to eat healthy food. Most importantly, a well-balanced diet. Eat right, and don’t simply indulge your stomach.
You require extra calories when breastfeeding. The baby weight you carry from pregnancy will be used for the milk. After losing all the excess baby weight, you may require about 500-600 calories every day. Once your baby starts on solid foods from 6 months, you will be producing less milk and then you can reduce your calorie intake.
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Article written by Shruti Goenka
Mothers who are unable to produce enough milk for their premature or sick infants can now rely on a safe supply of breast milk, with the launch of a three-year pilot for Singapore's first donar breast milk bank.
The programme, a collaboration between KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH) and Temasek Foundation Cares, was launched by former Speaker of Parliament Halimah Yacob on Thursday (Aug 17).
The foundation has set aside S$1.37 million for the milk bank, which will collect, screen, process and store breast milk from donor mothers.
In a joint media release, KKH and the foundation said they hope to recruit 375 mothers who are willing to donate their excess breast milk supply. They will need to undergo a “stringent” screening process, which includes tests for diseases such as HIV, hepatitis B and C and syphilis.
The programme is expected to benefit about 900 babies receiving neonatal care at KKH, Singapore General Hospital and the National University Hospital over the three-year period.
According to the statement, about 350 "very low birth weight” infants receive neonatal intensive care in local public Hospitals.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that mothers exclusively breast feed their babies for the first six months, as it is a vital source of nutrition and antibodies that boost their immune system.
"The fat globules in breast milk enable better brain development as well as development of vision," said KKH’s head of neonatology, Dr Chua Mei Chien. Dr Chua is also director of the milk bank programme.
According to experts, breast milk is critical for premature babies, who are at risk of being infected with a disease known as necrotising enterocolitis. But it takes mothers of premature babies a period of days or weeks before their bodies are able to produce enough milk.
KKH said up to 80 per cent of sick infants in the neonatal intensive care unit and the special care nursery have to drink formula milk for premature babies because their mothers are unable to produce enough milk.
"The provision of safe, pasteurised donor breast milk is aimed at reducing the risk of potential complications, while optimising their immunity, development and overall health," the statement said.
With the launch, Singapore joins about 40 countries to operate official milk banks.
For more information, visit KKH's website here.
Article was first posted on Channel News Asia
Work-life balance - now that's a tough thing to find, especially in this fast-paced Singaporean society. Add in managing the needs of your baby, and oof, things just got a hundred-fold more difficult! Mums can't be home all the time while their baby's growing up, and one prominent issue that they face is expressing breastmilk when they head back to work.
By the time your 3 or 4 months maternity leave has ended, your milk supply will more or less be well-regulated. To maintain it, try your best to stick to your regular 3-4 hours pumping schedule. Don't be too hard on yourself to stick to this schedule religiously, though! It's okay to go off track once in awhile.
If you want to continue breastfeeding after heading back to work, you'll need to get the proper tools, and come up with a plan to achieve your goals. Remember to inform your employer and colleagues that you’ll be pumping breastmilk for your baby. Find out if you’re able to pump at your desk, or if there’s a private area for you to do so, but avoid pumping in the toilet as it’s not a sterile environment.
Challenges Working Mothers Face
Challenge #1: I have no time to pump!
Due to the demands of your job, you can’t find the right time to express milk. Speaking to your boss and colleagues will really help. Try to schedule meetings around your pump sessions – it’ll be useful to establish a pumping schedule. That way, you know when will be the best time to call for a meeting. If it’s an important meeting you can’t miss, don’t worry! Just pump before or after your meeting. Being off-schedule occasionally usually won’t affect your milk supply.
If your job nature is of those that requires shift-work, try squeezing in a pump session (even if it’s a short 10 minutes) during your lunch break. Or if you really must, have your lunch while you pump! Mothers are made to multi-task anyway!
Challenge #2: Lack of nursing facilities
If you work near a mall with nursing rooms at your convenience or your office has a spare room for you to use, perfect! However, if your work environment just isn’t nursing friendly, consider pumping at your desk with a nursing cover over. You might feel uncomfortable at first, but over time, it’ll be second nature! Have some practice rounds at home to gain confidence.
Challenge #3: My boss and colleagues are mostly guys
The most important thing is to get your boss to understand. Let him know your decision to provide your baby with breastmilk. Assure him that you stepping away for your pump session will not affect your work performance and productivity. As for your male colleagues, don’t be bothered by them. Chances are, they will be equally as shy to talk to you about it! Pump with pride, Mummy!
Things To Prepare Before Returning To Work
One of the first things that you should focus on is equipping yourself with the tools that'll help you with breastfeeding:
Workplace Pumping Checklist:
Remember that breastfeeding is one of the greatest and healthiest gifts that only you can give your little one, and being a working mum shouldn’t stop you from doing so! Pump on!
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