Are you a breastfeeding mother? If so, then you must have been wearing your detective hat and by now be on the lookout for nutritious foods that can help nursing mothers. And why not? Exhaustion, aches and pains, and a thousand mood swings call for a diet that can help you stay on your toes throughout the day. Even more, with those tiny screams asking for food and those numerous diaper change calls.
While your child’s overly possessive grandparents must already have prepared a list for you of boring foods that are sure to starve you to death and run out of energy, you don’t necessarily have to follow that list. This might upset your in-laws a little, but experts say it’s important for breastfeeding mothers to have a nutritious diet that will keep you full and energetic.
Daljit Kaur, Head of Dietetics and Nutrition, Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, Okhla, New Delhi, provides nutrition tips and lists foods you should be eating while caring for another little person.
Lots of protein in the diet in the form of eggs, milk, fish, chicken, dahi, rice and kheer.
Get enough water as you will need it to feed your baby.
Green leafy vegetables and vitamin C (melon, oranges) are a must as they contribute to better iron absorption.
Fruits that are more juicy should be included in the daily diet.
Eat foods that are high in calories, but not in the form of fat or carbohydrates.
Potatoes, rice, and cereals can be included if the mother does not have gestational diabetes.
Take good fats – almonds and walnuts. These are good for the baby’s nervous system.
Food rich in iron should be included.
Desi Ghee in measured amounts is good too.
Oatmeal with milk can be taken.
Sufficient minerals and vitamins are a must.
Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Mother’s Diary: 7 Problems New Mothers Face And Ways To Cope With Them
