Celebrating National Breastfeeding/Chest Feeding Month: Nutritional Needs for Nursing Parents
Published
August is National Breastfeeding Month, a time to acknowledge and support the incredible journey of breastfeeding/chestfeeding. Breastfeeding is not only a way to nourish infants, but it also significantly impacts the nutritional needs of nursing parents. Breast milk is designed to provide optimal nutrition and immunity to babies. Packed with antibodies, enzymes, and essential nutrients, breast milk helps protect infants against infections, allergies, and diseases. The composition of breast milk adapts in the first few weeks as the baby grows, ensuring their changing nutritional needs are met.
Just as important as nourishing a newborn is taking care of the chest-feeding parent. Most people need to eat a well-balanced diet and ensure they are getting enough of the important macronutrients, vitamins, and minerals. On average, nursing parents need 300 to 500 extra calories per day while breastfeeding. Additionally, the need for the following nutrients increases:
- Protein
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin B12
- Selenium
- Zinc
- Iodine
- Choline
Choosing foods rich in these nutrients can help ensure that you and your child get all the macro- and micronutrients you and your child need.
Have questions or need support knowing what foods or supplements you need to achieve adequate intake? At Bastyr Health Clinics, we're here to help. Make an appointment with our nutrition experts or naturopathic doctors.
Mia Tarte MS, CN
