Breastfeeding calories?

ashleighs148

I'm 9 weeks pp and 99kg, I'm pumping round the clock but I'm an undersupplier (~650ml per day). I gained a lot of weight with with my 3 year old but with this pregnancy I didn't gain anything. I'm actually 4kg less than my pre-pregnancy weight for this baby. I would like to get down to 70kg without wrecking what little milk supply I have.

Is it possible to do both? How should I calculate my calorie goal?

AnnPT77

Your doctor or an affiliated dietitian would be the best bet.

Look, I'm no expert, but I've seen some women here say they lose OK and keep milk supply if they eat their current estimated maintenance calories (ignoring the breast feeding), and let the breastfeeding create a modest calorie deficit.

But - repeating myself - especially since you're an under-supplier, medical advice would be a good plan.

suzannefernstn

I also am not a doctor. While I was breastfeeding, stress had a major impact on my milk supply. Dieting can add extra stress and lead to lower milk supply. I suggest focusing on getting enough healthy calories. I suggest consulting with your doctor.

Hobartlemagne

Im just some dumb man, but I did find this:

https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding-special-circumstances/hcp/diet-micronutrients/maternal-diet.html

KareninCanada

I allowed an extra 500 calories per day while breastfeeding. It seemed to work out.