Will dieting while breastfeeding affect my baby?
Asked by takbbp on Feb 04, 2009
in Family & Pregnancy
Since I started losing weight about a month ago, my baby hasn't gained weight the way he should be. I don't feel hungry or deprived, but am wondering if perhaps I'm not taking in enough to meet all of his needs. I haven't been losing quickly, about a pound a week, and my milk production hasn't decreased. The doctor didn't mention anything about it, and I never thought to ask, unfortunately. I'm not sure whether to be concerned or not. Any help?
Answer
Losing a moderate amount of weight (approximately one pound per week) has no adverse effects on milk production or on the growth of the infant. This has been found both in laboratory research and in natural experiments, such as the 1944-1945 “hunger winter” in Holland, when malnutrition was produced by war. Still, breastfeeding women should consume at least 1500 to 1800 calories a day to avoid excessive weight loss and to get the nutrients the mother and baby need. Discuss your concerns about your baby's weight with your pediatrician.
