Breastfeeding is not easy, but did you know that the nutrients in your milk change depending on your baby’s needs?

Or that breastfeeding results in fewer allergies, eczemas, colds, ear infections, and even lowers the odds of your baby developing iron-deficiency anemia?

If a baby is premature, the nutrient ratio in a woman’s milk changes to help with their development. In addition, antibodies passed in breast milk provide a great deal of immunity to your baby, making your baby’s body protective against some childhood conditions (1). Infants who are breastfed for at least six months tend to have less antibiotic-resistant bacteria in their gut than those breastfed for a shorter time (2).

Unexplained death, usually during sleep, is the leading cause of death in babies under one year old. However, babies who are breastfed for at least two months have a significant reduction in their risk of dying from SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome).

Breastfeeding also benefits mothers. Nursing contracts your uterus to help prevent postpartum bleeding. Breastfeeding also protects against breast cancer and osteoporosis. Breastfeeding is also associated with a reduced risk of stroke and diabetes in mothers.

Dietary Recommendation for Breastfeeding:

Foods and drinks to have and avoid during breastfeeding:

   Avoid having coffee, alcohol, and chocolate as they frequently cause colic. It is also best to reduce the intake of broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, and spicy foods as they may also cause colic in some babies. It is best to avoid nuts (for eczema-prone babies) and watch for rashes and congestion signs when consuming dairy.

Foods & Drinks that help you with breastfeeding: 

It is best to drink a full glass of water with every feeding. Ensure that you are drinking two quarts of water per day. You may take vitamin C and Echinacea to support your immune system.

Tips for Nipple Soreness: 

At the beginning of breastfeeding, temporary soreness might occur. Between feedings,

you may apply warm black tea bags to the nipples (using a band-aid to keep it in place).

You may also apply Vitamin E from a capsule directly to the sore nipple. To reduce nipple soreness, it is best not to wash your breasts with soap. Use water only.

To identify specific naturopathic treatments that can support you, please call (416) 684-55-14 or click on the following link to book an appointment.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29495552

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/01/180117185037.htm