What is the lactation diet?
The lactation diet is the diet that is established while a woman breastfeeds her child. It is important to follow certain measures during this process so that the baby also follows a correct diet. Generally, and except in extreme cases such as malnutrition or strict vegetarian diets, milk contains all the fundamental nutrients for a baby’s health.
Why is it done?
Following a diet during the breastfeeding period is recommended in those cases in which mother or baby lacks some type of vitamin or defense in their body. Also in those cases in which there is presence of overweight, diabetes, cholesterol or presence of some type of disease on the part of the mother. It is important that such feeding control is prescribed by an expert specialist in the matter and not to follow certain structured diets, without having studied each case in particular, or fad diets. In addition, advice will be given when the quantity and quality of milk is affected.
What does it consist of?
The diet to be maintained during lactation should not be governed mainly by the number of calories, but to cover those deficiencies that influence the health of mother and child. To this end, a variety of healthy foods, i.e. carbohydrates, proteins, vegetables, fruits and healthy fats should be included.
Certain fish, particularly cold water fish, contain Omega-3 fatty acids, called decosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which are important for the development of the brain, eyes and nervous system of the baby during the first year of life. Even so, it is advisable not to exceed 5.5 kilos of fish and seafood per week. Certain types of fish containing high levels of contaminants such as mercury should also be avoided, including shark, swordfish, mackerel and tilefish. Canned white tuna usually has higher levels of contaminants than other types of canned tuna.
In terms of fluids, good hydration should be maintained. It is estimated that a mother’s body needs about 16 cups of fluids, including fluid found in foods and meals such as broths or soups. Caffeine should be limited and drunk in moderation to no more than 300mg per day or 250 ml.
On the other hand, the intake of saturated fats, which are found in fatty meats, butter, whole milk or tropical oils such as palm and coconut; or transgenic products, is discouraged. Avoid exposure to contaminants found in foods such as pesticides, insecticides and other chemicals that could influence milk quality. As well as alcohol and tobacco.
Preparing for the breastfeeding diet
Before making any dietary decisions, a specialist should be consulted to guide and guide the values of vitamins and nutrients that should be maintained in the body.