News Section

The debate on whether breastfeeding or formula is better for a newborn baby may be alive and well, but the reality is that many mothers do choose to breastfeed. If you are thinking of breastfeeding your newborn or are already doing so, here is some advice on breast care and how to also take care of yourself in the process.

Nutrition

While breastfeeding your baby proper precautions, nutrition, and attention to your body can enrich the experience of motherhood. Remember that nutrients travel through breastmilk into your baby’s body, so it is important to be aware of what you consume. Food, alcohol, and substance intake are often one of the first concerns all mothers have. You may be concerned about eating more food but consuming an extra 330 to 400 for nutrient-rich calories per day actually helps you have more energy and increases milk production.

You want to avoid alcohol, caffeine, and fish. Instead, try to focus on a protein-rich diet sourced from lean meat, vegetables, beans, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Eating iron as well as vitamin and calcium-dense foods ensures both you and your baby’s health. Vitamins play a key role in making sure proper nutrition thrives. If you are considering taking diet supplements or multivitamins, it is best to consult your health care provider beforehand.

If you follow a vegetarian diet, the same rules apply. Eat calcium, protein, and iron-dense foods. Try to opt for foods like plant protein, leafy greens, raisins, lentils, and whole grains. Quinoa is an excellent choice because it’s one of the only vegetarian complete proteins, meaning it has all nine essential amino acids that our bodies cannot self-produce.

Hydration

Consciously monitoring your hydration intake is as important as diet. When breast milk fluids are leaving your body, more fluid needs to go back in. Monitoring your urine color, smell and frequency are natural cues to know when to consume more healthy beverages; if something feels out of the ordinary, you need to change your fluid intake. Choose water over sugar-laden beverages and avoid caffeinated drinks. Caffeine can cause your baby to be agitated, and too much sugar can cause postpartum weight gain.

Breast Care

While breastfeeding, you also want to make sure you are allowing yourself to properly care for your nipples. An easy way to do that is by allowing some breast milk to dry on them. Breast milk has natural skin softening abilities and antibodies. If your doctor says it’s safe, take acetaminophen thirty minutes before breastfeeding to help relieve some of the pain. Start feeding your baby on the side of your breast that is less tender. Also, alternate sides and your baby’s position with each feeding. Let your nipples air-dry whenever possible and use hypoallergenic topical ointments to prevent dryness.

You can also apply cold compresses after feeding, and also provide your breasts with plenty of support.  Cotton breastfeeding bras with non-elastic straps are a great option. If needed, wear a bra at night for additional support. Avoid washing your nipples with soap as it can dry them out more, or avoid using all-purpose lotions, creams, and bras with plastic lining.

If you have symptoms that persist, such as increasing redness, puss, intense tenderness, or a fever over 101°F contact your doctor or health care provider.