If your baby is breastfed, a healthy and balanced diet is crucial for both of you. Very likely, you will be hungrier than normal as your body is using up more calories with breastfeeding. Fruit, vegetables, wholegrain and dairy products, lean meat and fish provide you and your baby with essential nutrients.
According to popular “wisdom”, pulses and onions may cause wind, tomatoes and lemons may cause a sore bottom – but bear in mind that there is no scientific basis for any of this. Make sure you don’t miss out on certain foods unnecessarily – test different foods in small quantities to find out what is good for your baby and what isn’t.
If you crave a sweet treat, try snacking on fruit, fruit salad and dried fruit (maybe mixed with yogurt or quark). A HiPP fruit jar also makes a perfect pick-me-up during the day.
If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet and still want to breastfeed, please talk to your midwife or GP.