- Breastfeeding mothers require an additional 500 calories per day for singletons, 1000 calories per day for twins, and 1500 calories per day for triplets.
- Increasing your fluid intake is essential. You should drink enough to satisfy your thirst.
- Limit caffeine intake to 1-2 cups per day.
- Continue taking your prenatal vitamins.
- If you are taking any medications, be sure to consult your physician regarding the safety of the medication while nursing.
- Some “gas producing” foods that may irritate your baby include:
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Caffeine
- Chocolate
- Cauliflower
- Excess spices
- Garlic
- Legumes-beans, lentils
- Onion
- Include 1 serving of Vitamin A foods (i.e. squash, carrots, sweet potato, dark green leafy vegetables, apricot, pumpkin, peaches, papaya, mangos, and cantaloupes) and 1 serving of Vitamin C foods (citrus fruits, strawberries, cauliflower, broccoli, tomato, red and green bell peppers, spinach, guava, grapefruit, orange, and potato).
- For an individualized nutritional plan during breastfeeding, visit USDA’s MyPyramid.
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