How many calories for mom's breastfeeding

jeneroo

I am confused. Currently I am allotted 1300 calories a day, however, I exclusively breastfeed my 4 month old baby. How many extra calories should that give me? I don't want to lose the weight too quickly and lose my milk supply either. HELP!

yankeefamily05

it is usually 500 extra calories!

You can also add breastfeeding into your food diary.

Start by adding 500 calories, and see how that feels!

LotsOtots5

I think the general rule of thumb is 500 calories EXTRA for breastfeeding so 1800. And make sure you're drinking lots and lots of water!

TiniTurtle

i'm a nurse & you burn about 500 calories a day producing the milk. you can add it to your cardio, i hear it is on here (i haven't looked though) so it'll add it to your calorie goals & you'll have 1800 a day ) & congrats on the new baby!

bridgetzc

I have read that you need to stay within 1500-1800 calories per day in order to maintain your milk supply (this is according to Kellymom). Breast feeding can burn 200-500 calories per day. Breast feeding women can safely lose one pound a week without jeopardizing milk supply. I add 300 calories per day for breast feeding and I have been losing weight with no negative effects on my milk supply. As long as you monitor your milk supply and eat enough calories you should not have any issues.