What is the best way to diet while nursing?
December 15th, 2007 | by nursing |
Tara Elaine asked:
I’m still nursing my 4 month old son. I still have all this weight from my pregnancy. I want to lose it, but I’m afraid to diet and it effect my son because I’m nursing. Can you diet while nursing?
EARLE
I’m still nursing my 4 month old son. I still have all this weight from my pregnancy. I want to lose it, but I’m afraid to diet and it effect my son because I’m nursing. Can you diet while nursing?
EARLE
7 Responses to “What is the best way to diet while nursing?”
By AlongthePemi on Dec 16, 2007 | Reply
Just eat healthy. You are still eating for two and need all the nutrition you can get. Talk to your doctor about the best diet for you - not a weightloss diet but a healthy one. If you eat healthy and continue to bf exclusively you will see some weight come off anyway. After you wean, continue to eat healthy or you could go on a stricter weight loss regimen.
By mystic_eye_cda on Dec 19, 2007 | Reply
Go read this article, I have just copied the table of contents.
Can I diet while breastfeeding?
By Kelly Bonyata, IBCLC
Six guidelines for safe dieting during lactation
What might happen if a nursing mother loses weight too quickly?
Three great tips for weight loss (whether you are nursing or not)
Specific weight loss methods
Weight Watchers, Body for Life
South Beach Diet, Atkins Diet
Herbal weight loss products
Additional information
By commentstogo on Dec 22, 2007 | Reply
You have make it a change in lifestyle. No matter what others suggest - find out what your calorie level is for your realistic body size and aim for that plus extra calories for ****** milk- 300-700+ usually.
Eating healthy is the goal regardless and heathy eating eating includes the right amount of calories. Also increase your activity level.
By Charlie Mike on Dec 24, 2007 | Reply
Choose from one of these diet plans. Transitions is known to work with pregnancy. Check it out at
By Helen H on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply
Carry on breastfeeding and that will help. I don’t think dieting is a good idea. Eat what you feel you need to in order to nourish your baby. You will have plenty of time to diet after you have finished breastfeeding. Also, if you don’t keep up correct food and drink intake you milk may not be of good quality and may dry up altogether, so make the alturistic choice here.
By Lyndsey on Dec 28, 2007 | Reply
I joined Weight Watchers when my baby was 9 months old. I’ve lost 40 pounds on it with no dip in supply. You get 10 additional Points to use on the nursing moms plan so you can ensure your milk supply remains strong.
Congratulations for nursing four months!
By Calliope_13731 on Dec 30, 2007 | Reply
There is no need to diet while nursing. Breastfeeding itself will help you to lose your baby fat (congratulations on breastfeeding your new baby !!!!)
It’s a good idea to keep active if you are concerned about your weight. Try playing with your baby in ways that facilitate exercise (taking walks — although this may be difficult while it is still cold outside, or dancing for your baby). Exercise is the best way to lose your baby fat after your baby is born if you are breastfeeding. You don’t want to shortchange your baby’s diet by limiting your own. Your baby needs the fat in your milk for brain development, and that fat comes from your diet, so avoid low-fat foods (now you can see why dieting is bad for nursing mothers). Just try to eat well and healthy, and keep taking your prenatal vitamin, drink lots of fluids, and stay active. I breastfed both of my babies and never dieted, and lost my baby fat both times. You have the rest of your life to worry about losing that baby fat — don’t stress about it now when your diet affects someone else !
Good luck!