Breast milk is the source of good nutrition, vitamins, and minerals that a baby needs. A woman should exclusively breastfeed her child for the first 6 months and can continue after that also (along with solids).  You don’t require a special diet to make sufficient milk for your baby. You can have all the general things that you used to eat before with few exceptions as your body needs fuel to make milk. Ensure the consumption of a variety of fruits and vegetables along with sufficient fluid intake.

A healthy diet is recommended for all women and offers many benefits to the new mother. Breastfeeding women need 500 calories extra per day as they feed their newborns too. 

Foods to eat

Drink sufficient water, there is no specific amount to mention. Mothers should drink as and when they are thirsty.  Take enough quantity of calcium-rich food like milk, cheese, yogurt as milk will pull all calcium from their body and if you are not taking extra calcium, then it can affect long-term bone density. Women should take healthy fats such as nuts, seeds and avocados. Consumption of fiber will help in promoting better digestion like quinoa, oats.  It is important to eat a balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables. Taking healthy snacks in between your meals will help keep your energy levels up.

Foods to avoid

Limit fatty foods and foods that are high in sugars.

Whatever you will consume, everything will pass into your milk. So, limit caffeine-containing food items.

Before taking any medicines, consult your physician first. Many medicines are not safe with breast milk. Thus, consult with your doctor before taking any.

Alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs also affect your breast milk and your baby. Hence avoid taking them.

Breast milk production requires dietary support (sufficient fluid and food). If a woman feels that her milk supply is low, the most effective way to stimulate more milk is to feed the baby more frequently as sucking stimulates milk production. 

Disclaimer: The content on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be taken as professional medical advice.  Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other health professionals for any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.