During the breastfeeding period, a daily protein intake of 63-85 grams is recommended. The protein from food is especially needed for milk protein synthesis. Two grams of available protein are needed to synthesize one gram of milk protein. Too little protein intake from the diet leads to the mother’s reserves being attacked and significant deficiencies can result. Increased protein intake will not increase the protein content of the milk.
Animal protein, unlike vegetable protein, is of higher quality and better meets the protein requirements of the human body. The different biological value is due to the essential amino acids contained in different quantities. Accordingly, at least 50% of dietary protein should be of animal origin to ensure adequate levels of essential amino acids.
However, vegetable protein does not have to be dispensed with. The essential amino acids of animal and plant foods can be supplemented in such a way that an equally high biological value can be achieved. Favorable combinations are potatoes with egg or dairy products and cereals with egg, dairy products or legumes.
