Introduction
The lactation period is a very special phase for both the newborn and the mother. It is generally known that breastfeeding has a positive influence on the development and health of the child, but how does nutrition affect breast milk? And what should be taken into account when feeding during the breastfeeding period?
What kind of nutrition is particularly good for my baby during the breastfeeding period?
There is no special diet that must be followed during the breastfeeding period. A balanced, nutritious diet is important for the health of the baby and the mother. It is advisable to follow a full-food diet with sufficient carbohydrates, fats and also proteins.
A very strict vegan diet should rather be avoided. If it is not possible to do without this diet, sufficient vitamins and iron should be substituted so that no deficiency symptoms occur. Fresh fruit, vegetables and high-quality carbohydrates, such as wholemeal pasta, brown rice or wholemeal bread are highly recommended.
The general recommendations for moderate meat and fish consumption are also recommended during pregnancy. High-quality oils, such as rapeseed and olive oil, are preferable to animal fats. Dairy products, such as yoghurt and cheese, should not be removed from the menu either. Unhealthy foods, such as fried foods, sweets and fast food are not recommended, as is generally the case. It is still very important to avoid alcohol.
These foods are recommended
These foods are recommended for a healthy diet during the breastfeeding period:
- Fresh fruit
- Vegetables
- Whole grain products
- High quality oils like rapeseed – and olive oil
- Iron and calcium rich food (fish, meat, eggs, dairy products)
- Sufficient liquid!
This should be avoided
During the breastfeeding period, care should be taken to ensure a balanced and nutritious diet. A vegan diet is not recommended, as the infant may develop deficiency symptoms. Pediatricians recommend that the following substances should also be avoided during the breastfeeding period
- Nicotine
- Alcohol
- Caffeine (not more than 2 cups of coffee)
- Strict diets
- Food Combining
In general, one should refrain from drinking alcohol during the breastfeeding period.
Especially a high and regular consumption of alcohol leads to a reduced milk flow and a changed composition of the breast milk. Alcohol should therefore be consumed, if at all, only on special occasions and at best immediately after breastfeeding, so that the distance to the next breastfeeding meal is as long as possible. Although some sources argue that a small consumption – less or a glass of wine daily – has no negative consequences for the infant, the majority of pediatricians completely advise against alcohol consumption.
