Taking Care of Yourself
You will be busy caring for your new baby, therefore
it is as important as ever for you to stay healthy
and well nourished.
Dietary Requirements
As a nursing mother, it is important to maintain
a well-balanced diet for good health. Read the
breastfeeding daily food guide and other helpful
breastfeeding information in the Pregnancy
Health Center.
Fluid Intake
As a nursing mother, you will need adequate fluid
intake to stay healthy and hydrated. Most experts
recommend drinking enough fluids to satisfy thirst.
Eight, 8-ounce servings (64 ounces) of fluid such
as water, milk, juice or soup is a good goal.
Medications, Alcohol and Caffeine
It is important to remember that a percentage
of the substances you consume are passed on to
your baby through your breast milk. Contact your
obstetrical provider or lactation consultant if
you have any questions or concerns about how food,
beverage or medication consumption may affect
your baby.
Postpartum Depression
Having a baby can be both elating and exhausting.
Add the physical demands of breastfeeding to the
emotional and behavioral changes your body is
experiencing, and it can all become overwhelming.
Read more about postpartum
depression in our Pregnancy
Health Center.
Call your health care provider if you have any
concerns about your emotional or physical wellbeing.
|
