4 superfoods for nursing mothers
New moms have a few challenges to face every day after delivery. They have to accommodate everything around the changing routine of the newborn baby. And one of the most pressing concerns for the mother is breastfeeding. From getting the posture right to ensuring that the milk supply is sufficient for the baby, there are many breastfeeding concerns that a mother experiences. This article highlights some foods that benefit infants as well as nursing moms.
- Avocados
This is a nutritional powerhouse for humans, especially for nursing moms. Packed with essential vitamins like vitamin B, vitamin K, folate, potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin E, avocados are a great addition to one’s meal plan. Avocados are also loaded with heart-healthy fats, which are essential for babies. It also keeps the mom feeling full for a longer time. - Green vegetables
Kale, spinach, collards, or any leafy greens help in increasing milk production for nursing moms. This is a beneficial tip for new moms with a low milk supply. Besides, the infants will develop a liking for the taste of the vegetables when they are toddlers. - Beans and legumes
Besides being packed with vitamins, proteins, minerals, iron, and phytoestrogens, some beans like chickpeas are loaded with galactagogue. Galactagogue, a substance found in certain foods, helps increase the supply of milk. Supply of milk can be an issue for breastfeeding moms. - Dates
Dates are high in magnesium, copper, manganese, iron, vitamin B6, and potassium. One serving of dates in the morning can offer a sufficient amount of these nutrients for the day. Consuming dates can increase prolactin, a hormone that increases milk supply.
Basics of breastfeeding
Besides following a healthy meal plan, a nursing mother must also develop a habit of breastfeeding and pumping regularly. The supply of milk only increases when proper and timely suction is induced. Some moms may rely on breast pumps when their babies experience trouble latching.
Breast pumps are expensive; your medical plan can cover them. For instance, Cigna offers excellent maternity benefits, and most of their plans also cover different types of breast pumps. Their 1 Natural Way plan offers breast pumps by Elvie, Medela, Spectra, Willow, among others.
