Staying hydrated is important for everyone’s well-being, but it’s crucial when you’re staying hydrated for two! There are a lot of beverages to choose from, and some can make it harder to produce milk, so it’s important to be informed. According to most health professionals, here’s what you should be drinking.
What to Drink When Breastfeeding
It seems obvious, but it’s extremely important—you should be drinking tons of water. Doctors recommend that the average woman drink eight cups of water a day, and that number almost doubles when you’re breastfeeding. 88% of breastmilk is water, so the more you drink, the easier it will be to produce. 13 cups a day will keep you and your baby hydrated and healthy.
Vegetables are one of the easiest ways to get some of the most important vitamins, and drinking them is quicker and just as beneficial. Your baby needs a lot of iron, and leafy greens like kale and spinach are packed full of it. Carrots are great sources of energy—they’re rich in vitamin A, beta-carotene and phytoestrogens, and come highly recommended by most nutritionists. If you’re craving something sweet, fruit juice is a great alternative with similar health benefits.
One of the most common causes of low milk supply is anxiety. Herbal tea is a great way to relax your mind and body and reap some great health benefits. These teas are great for cleansing toxins from your body and keeping you hydrated. Mother’s Milk tea is the beverage for breastfeeding moms. It’s specifically designed for breastfeeding, and has been used for centuries. It’s packed with beneficial herbs—you can make it at home or buy it ready-made at the store.
Things to Avoid in your Breastfeeding Beverages
If you choose juice—or a blend of juices—for your breastfeeding beverage, avoid anything with artificial sweeteners or additives. Always use 100% juice and splurge for the organic if you can!
Some babies may be sensitive to certain foods, so it’s important to always monitor how your baby reacts to different fruits or vegetables that you may not have eaten regularly before.
Be sure to check the sodium content of the vegetables you choose to drink, and avoid the “gassy” vegetables like broccoli, cucumber and cabbage.
Many babies can react poorly to dairy products. So if you plan on adding milk to any of your drinks, try using almond milk to avoid consuming too much dairy.
Need more information? Contact RMC today!