Breastmilk is considered the most suitable food for neonates and infants. It is recognized to contain all the required nutrients necessary for the baby at least for the first 6 months of life. The lactation period is marked by increased nutritional needs, mainly from the loss of nutrients experienced from gestation and delivery therefore it is advisable to promote proper nutrition status during lactation.
Indeed, the composition of most nutrients in breastmilk remains constant regardless of your dietary intake. Nutrients including carbohydrates, fats, proteins, iron and calcium remain uninfluenced even with changes in your diet; however, others such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B1 and Vitamin D correlate with intake wherein in deficiency or low amounts in your diet, and their content is limited in breast milk. Basically, the concentration of fat-soluble vitamins in breast milk is dependent on maternal stores while that of water-soluble vitamins is dependent on maternal dietary intake.
Breastmilk volume also varies extensively depending on your diet and nutrient reserves. At certain times, its production is less or more. Colostrum is produced after delivery -it appears first and contains protective anti-bodies. Its production is usually in small quantities though overtime milk production increases. A diet that contains adequate intake of porridge and soups also promotes milk production. Alternatively , a restrictive diet renders less milk production.
It is very important that you prioritize a nutritious diet inclusive of the various nutrients and in sufficient amounts. What you want to reduce is the likelihood of nutrient deficiencies that can present to your child. You also do not want to restrict your calories to anything below 1800kcals per day just to decrease your risk of not meeting your increased nutrient demands. The age, level of activity, one’s metabolism and postpartum weight determine the quantity of food a woman requires to achieve an optimum nutritional status and adequate milk supply. Hence, attend your post-natal visits regularly to receive personalized counselling on the precise amounts of your nutrient intake and that of your child’s during this period.