Negros Oriental Province - Nutrients from the mother's body are found in abundance in breast milk. A nursing mom needs a consistent supply of "ingredients" for this incredibly nourishing fluid, which must be provided by regular meals and snacks. Mom needs a proper number of macronutrients (protein, carbs, and fat) and micronutrients to produce milk and preserve its health (vitamins and minerals). But can vegans support breastfeeding?
A guide to breastfeeding while vegetarian or vegan is provided below.
- Consume as many plant-based foods from each dietary group as you can. This includes foods such as grains, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds, fruits, and oils.
- Strongly consider supplementing with Vitamins:
- Vitamin B12. Babies breastfed by vegan nursing moms who also add B12 supplements to their diets can grow normally. Babies breastfed by vegan women who don't take B12 supplements, and don't consume B12-fortified meals or supplements frequently suffer severe B12 deficiency and diseases relating to the nervous system.
- Vitamin D. Vegan nursing moms might be able to acquire enough vitamin D from sunlight by spending a little time outside each day.
- Minerals:
- Calcium. Despite the fact that the body stores a lot of calcium, the body does not generate calcium. Many vegetables, especially dark leafy greens, legumes, fortified orange juice, and soy products all contain calcium. It can also be necessary to take a calcium supplement.
- Iron. Consume enough iron-fortified bread, cereal, leafy green vegetables, almonds, tofu, mushrooms, and whole grains. You will be able to absorb more iron if you eat these foods with foods high in vitamin C.
- Zinc. Because the body uses up its stored zinc to maintain consistent levels in breastfeeding, the lactating mom needs to consume 12 milligrams of zinc or more every day to meet the needs as well as those of the infant.
Vegan and vegetarian moms can certainly breastfeed successfully. Being mindful of the diet while nursing is advisable because a breastfed kid receives all of their nutrition from the parent's milk. Always consult health professionals for the best individual advice. // ND II Raya Faith A. Luce, RND
