Articles
Breast brew best for baby
The composition of breast milk is suited to the growth rate and requirements of the infant and is easily digested. Iron, copper and fat are better absorbed from breast milk than cow’s milk. It provides protection to the infant against infection. For the mother, it is enjoyable, economical, speeds the return of the uterus to normal size and is a convenient milk at hand. For the child, it provides protection against cow’s milk allergy and there is no risk of overfeeding.
Recommended dietary allowances while breast feeding
Energy - additional 2500 kilojoules (600 calories)
Protein - additional 16 grams to give a total of 61 grams
Calcium - additional 400 mg to give a total of 1200mg
Iron - normal requirement of 12 to 16 mg
Folate-additional 150 micrograms to give a total of 350 micrograms
Vitamin C- additional 45 mg to give a total of 75 mg
How to ensure that the requirements are met.
Review : "Enjoy a variety of foods every day" - a guide to healthy eating from last week. ( Also available from the Health Department)
Milk & milk products;
Three to four serves of milk, yoghurt or cheese will contribute to energy and protein and supply most of the calcium required.
Meat, fish, poultry, eggs, nuts and legumes;
Three to four serves of meat, chicken, fish, lentils, beans and nuts will give adequate protein when combined with milk and milk products. Include red meat and enriched cereals for good iron sources.
Fruit;
Two to three serves of citrus, fresh, canned or stewed without sugar or dried will supply energy, vitamins and beta carotene. It is particularly important for the increased requirement of Vitamin C. Include rich sources of vitamin C such as citrus, strawberries and kiwi fruit.
Vegetable and legumes;
Two to three cups or 5 serves such as green, yellow and red choices will ensure a range of vitamins and minerals. Tomato, capsicum and broccoli are excellent sources for the increased requirement of Vitamin C. Green leafy vegetables contribute folate. Legumes are excellent for protein and energy. Include potato, sweet potato, corn, peas, parsnip as energy rich foods.
Breads, cereals, grains and starchy vegetables;
Six or more serves such as oatmeal, whole grains, pasta, potato and long grain rice will supply the increased energy requirement. Sufficient should be eaten to maintain an ideal body weight. This is particularly important when the baby is relying totally on breast milk.
Water
Three litres of fluid daily made up from mainly from water and juice with some low joule soft drinks, coffee and tea.
Remember that the baby will be fed at the expense of the mother’s health. Ensure that as a mother you maintain your health and fitness so that you may best care for your baby. A tired mother without an adequate diet will not have the energy and vitality to cope with a young family.
Common questions
How long should I breast feed?
There is no set time, three months is great but 6 months or more is better. Even a very short time can still be worth while. Every situation is different and no mother should be made to feel inadequate if she is not able to breast feed for a significant amount of time.
Will my baby suffer if he or she is formula fed?
No, formulas are well designed to imitate mother’s milk. There are situations because of stress, illness or work where formula mixtures are the only reasonable alternative.
How can I be assured that the breast milk will contain all the nutrients that the baby needs ?
Mother nature takes care of the content of breast milk making it everything that the baby requires. If the baby is contented and is putting on adequate weight according to the Clinic Health Nurse then, you can be assured that the baby is getting all he or she needs. There is no need to supplement a totally breast fed baby in the first 4 months.
When should I introduce solids?
Solids should not be introduced until after 4 months. Great care should be taken for families with allergies as early introduction can lead to problems.
Do I need a special diet to breast feed?
You do not need a special diet but it is important to eat a well balanced diet with good sources of protein, calcium and iron with a fairly high energy intake. Energy requirement in breast feeding is higher than when pregnant.
Can I diet whilst breast feeding?
A well balanced diet and adequate fluids is required during breast feeding to maintain the health of the mother and to provide sufficient milk for the baby. At least 10 cups of fluid and 6000 kilojoules (1500 calories) should be consumed daily. A slow weight loss of no more than 1 kg a month should be possible, without affecting the milk supply, providing energy intake is limited and some exercise is incorporated. See a dietitian for help in planning a healthy diet.
Are there foods that could upset the baby via the mother’s milk?
Curries and some windy vegetables such as cabbage may effect the baby and produce colic. Alcohol should definitely be avoided. Foods which have previously caused heart-burn or flatulence should be avoided when breast feeding. Caffeine in tea, coffee and cola drinks may pass into the breast milk. No more than 4 cups a day should be consumed.
Note: If allergies are known in the family, it is best for the mother to restrict these foods for the first 12 months as the allergies could be transferred to the child through the milk.
I am losing too much weight while breast feeding
Make sure you are eating a balanced diet. Do not skip meals, and have nutritious snacks such as sandwiches, crackers with cheese, full cream yoghurt, fresh fruit, nuts and dried fruits as well as regular meals.
Recipes
Cream Caramel : A creamy caramel dessert rich in calcium and protein.
Added to site on : Wednesday, 4 August 1999