Many new mothers quickly discover that there are not enough hours
in the day to get everything done. Feeding, diapering, and bathing a
newborn is definitely time consuming. However, nutrition is extremely
important for breastfeeding mothers.
Women who eat a nutritionally balanced diet do not need to take supplements
while breastfeeding. However, many mothers find it difficult to eat properly
while caring for a very young infant. For most women, calcium and zinc
supplements are beneficial during breastfeeding. Research has shown that
most women do not get enough of these nutrients from the foods that they
eat.
Many women are eager to get back to their pre-pregnancy shape and begin
dieting while they are still breastfeeding. Women on a reduced calorie
diet might want to include magnesium, Vitamin E, Vitamin B6, and thiamin
supplements in their diet. Iron, phosphorus, riboflavin and folic acid
supplements may also be necessary. Ask your physician for advice if you
are unsure what vitamin and mineral supplements you should be taking.
Some vitamin and mineral supplements contain added herbs that claim
to promote weight loss, increase memory, or provide an additional health
benefit. It is not recommended to take these types of supplements while
breastfeeding. Some herbs are can be dangerous for a breastfeeding infant.
Most supplements taken by a breastfeeding mother do not affect the level
of vitamins and minerals in her breast milk. In the United States, nearly
all women get enough vitamins and minerals from the food they eat to
produce adequate breast milk. Women with nutritional deficiencies can
still produce enough milk to nourish their infants. However, their own
health and well being may be compromised. A breastfeeding woman's body
will automatically take the nutrients it needs to help nourish her child.
Vitamin and mineral supplements taken while breastfeeding are for the
benefit of the mother. |
