Oh, breastfeeding, I really have a love-dislike relationship with it! Really, it’s the pumping. Don’t get me wrong I am so grateful to be able to provide for my son. The benefits are countless, but it seriously feels like I’m running a milk factory. Everyone is different, but, it truly does take dedication and commitment to stick with your goal, especially if you’re returning to work. I’m exclusively pumping, and my goal is to provide Ezra with breastmilk for at least one year! That being said, I’m currently working on my freezer stockpile!
I have a pretty good amount of milk already saved in the freezer and we are 10 weeks in! Rewind to 2016 with my daughter: I was breastfeeding on-demand, but was barely making what she needed. As a result, she wasn’t gaining adequate weight, and we had to start supplementing with formula by the time she was 2 months old. In total, I was able to breastfeed for 7 months with supplementing. My milk production this time around is seriously the complete opposite, and I have to credit that to my diet. I’m getting sufficient nutrients and I’m taking in the correct amount of calories for my weight.
Superfoods
What exactly is a superfood? A term given to foods that are per bite, super packed with nutrients that add to your health such as antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Obviously these foods don’t have magical powers or anything, its so important to eat a well balanced diet! With regards to breastfeeding, they do however help with energy levels and with keeping a healthy milk supply.
First, making sure you are drinking enough water and getting enough calories in is key. Breast milk is 88% water! My issue last time around, was that I was not taking enough calories in. I didn’t know what the correct amount of calories for my weight looked like. Then, to add an additional 500 calories for breastfeeding, I was clearly lost! lol. These days I am more busy than ever, so its so important for me get the most bang for my buck by cooking with nutrient dense options.
Almonds Super packed with essential minerals to include calcium, and a healthy source for fatty acids and protein. Its also a lactogenic which helps stimulate breast milk production
Avocado Super packed with heart healthy fats, and a great source of B vitamins, vitamin K, folate, potassium, vitamin C and vitamin E.
Blueberries Super packed with vitamin C, potassium, folate, and fiber
Chia seeds Super packed with omega-3 fatty acid (great for baby’s brain development), also contains fiber, protein, calcium, and magnesium. Great for digestion.
Eggs Super packed with protein, also contains essential fatty acid omega-3, and plenty of vitamins and minerals to include folate, vitamin A, vitamin b12, and iron
Oatmeal Super packed with fiber and iron. It’s a lactogenic which helps stimulate breastmilk production.
Quinoa Super packed with fiber and protein, also contains magnesium which helps your body absorb calcium
Spinach Super packed with iron, calcium, vitamin K and A, and folate which are all essential nutrients while breastfeeding and help your body build healthy red blood cells
Quick Recipes to Jumpstart your Morning
These recipes are meant to be EASY. I’m talking, minimal prep, make ahead type of breakfast. It’s exactly what I need. Between pumping, feeding Ezra and getting Eden ready for school, mornings are hectic around here! The recipes are most definitely super packed with nutrients, and they leave you feeling full and energized.
What is your quick go-to breakfast?
Girl, I love this! I’m learning from some of the best!
Thank you!! xo
Yes!!! Thanks a bunch! Gotta get ready for my days back to work!
Yessss! Glad it was helpful!