Breastfeeding mothers generally require enhanced caloric intake to meet their nutritional needs. It is recommended that well-nourished breastfeeding mothers consume an additional 330 to 400 kilocalories (kcal) per day compared to their pre-pregnancy diet. Factors such as age, body mass index, activity level, and whether the mother is exclusively breastfeeding or combining breastfeeding with formula feeding can influence specific caloric needs. Health professionals can use the Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) Calculator for Health Care Professionals for personalized estimates.
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Nutritional supplements may be necessary for breastfeeding mothers, especially since the recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) for certain nutrients, like iodine and choline, increase during lactation. Providers should help determine if multivitamin supplementation is advisable, as diet alone might not suffice for adequate nutrition.
Key micronutrients that breastfeeding mothers should focus on include vitamins B12, B9 (folate), D, and A, as well as iodine and choline. The guidelines suggest daily intakes of 290 micrograms (mcg) of iodine and 550 milligrams (mg) of choline during lactation. Sources of these nutrients include dairy products, eggs, meats, and low-mercury seafood rich in DHA, along with folate-rich legumes and dark leafy greens.
Women are generally encouraged to maintain a varied and healthy diet while breastfeeding. However, certain seafood types should be limited due to mercury content, which can adversely affect an infant's development. Mothers should adhere to the recommendations from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding fish consumption.
Caffeine can also pass to infants through breast milk, typically without negative effects when consumed in moderation (around 300 milligrams or less per day, equivalent to 2 to 3 cups of coffee). High caffeine intake may lead to irritability and poor sleep patterns in infants. Mothers should consider lowering caffeine consumption, especially if their infant shows signs of increased fussiness.
Breastfeeding mothers on vegan or vegetarian diets should be cautious about nutrient intake, particularly vitamin B12 and iron. Since plant sources provide only non-heme iron, it is less absorbable compared to the heme iron found in animal products. Healthcare providers are advised to guide these mothers in identifying potential supplements necessary for nutrients such as choline, zinc, iron, vitamin B12, vitamin D, vitamin A, calcium, iodine, and omega-3 fats.
The information is provided by the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion and is intended to assist healthcare providers in advising breastfeeding mothers.