Dieting while BFing

BabyBliss2012

I read that diet and exercising can release toxins into breastmilk.  What does that exactly mean and can it harm the baby?

eaglei1

This is a bit iffy, but basically they don't want you to lose more than 1 to 2 lbs per week. If you lose more than that, you will start losing your fat stores too quickly and it will release the toxins into the milk.  More so if you are doing more protein and no carbs.

bpv101283

I lost 57 lbs in 3 months.  My supply was always fine.  I didn't do anything to lose weight really.  I ate 6 small meals a day, plenty of fresh raw veggies, lot's of greek yogurt, cottage cheese in between breakfast, lunch and dinner.  I walked every day that the weather allowed.  In the first 6 weeks I had already lost over 30 pounds.  I was so bloated at the end of my pregnancy it could have honestly been a lot of extra fluid.  I do not know anything about toxins entering your beast milk, but I'm not an expert.  I have a full freezer of BM stores, so it didn't affect me negatively.

ccleary1313

I've never heard of toxins being released because of diet and exercise, I've just also heard like an above poster mentioned that cutting calories can cut your milk supply.

I think as long as you make healthy diet choices and get active you should be fine, as long as you aren't cutting your calories down. I like the idea of several small meals throughout the day. Also, look into protein shakes (which will help with energy levels too, always a good thing for a new momma!) just be REALLY careful what kind of protein shake you get. Plant proteins are much better for you then animal proteins. I'd recommend a hemp protein powder or pumpkin seed protein powder. Both are less expensive then the traditional "protein shakes" and it's a good way to add extra fruits and veggies into your diet! (and no, they do not taste yucky!)

 

 

LesleyT

I never heard of that. Sounds like an urban legend. But, I can tell you that my supply TANKS when I don't get enough calories to BF. SO, no dieting here till I'm done. I just try to eat healthy, work out moderately to keep it all in balance. My supply also goes down if I don't get enough fluids or if I'm super busy and don't have any down time/rest to produce. But the toxin thing....news to me. 

laoch101

Yup there are toxins stored in your fat. Your body will process it out. Just make sure to take in extra antioxidants. Also watch your water intake. Water is key to processing whatever your body needs. Start slowly so that you can gauge yourself better.