Do I need a special diet while breastfeeding my baby? I don’t always eat healthy and I’m nervous this will affect my baby?
It's important to eat a variety of healthy foods. But your breastmilk will still be the healthiest option for your baby, no matter what you eat. Choose healthy snacks like vegetables and dip, or fruit and nut butter. Eat lots of high-protein foods and keep taking your prenatal vitamin.
You might find you are more thirsty when breastfeeding, which is normal. Drink water whenever you are thirsty. Or aim for one glass of water every time you breastfeed or pump. Avoid a lot of caffeine, which can make your baby fussy and cause gas.
You rarely need to avoid foods, unless your baby has a sensitivity or allergy to a food you are eating. If so, they will usually have bloody or very green stools (poop). Your baby may have digestive issues if they can’t digest the protein in dairy products, which comes through breast milk. If you feel your baby has a food intolerance, speak with your doctor or Certified Lactation Consultant to discuss an elimination diet. Remember, your body needs extra calories to produce breast milk and your nutrition is just as important as your baby’s!