The short answer from a registered dietitian
A: Women who are breastfeeding have a need for more calories because those calories are being used to provide nutrients to the baby. If you’re low on calories, it could affect your milk supply and energy level – both of which are not good for nursing moms.
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
So typically for women who are breastfeeding, I do not advise intermittent fasting.
However, in the later stages of breastfeeding, say if you’re feeding in the morning and evening and you’re not the primary source of your baby’s nutrition anymore, then you could probably incorporate some fasting towards the very tail end.
But I certainly do not recommend intermittent fasting during the very active breastfeeding period where you’re providing your baby’s main source of nutrition.
Until you’re done breastfeeding, your safest bet is to focus on a healthy diet and exercise plan.
– Registered dietitian Julia Zumpano, RD.
Learn more about our editorial process.
Planning ahead, checking in with your care team and being vigilant about blood sugar monitoring can help ensure a safe fast
It’s best to exercise before or after your fast, instead of during it
Plan ahead by hydrating, cutting back on sugar and managing medications
When breastfeeding doesn’t go as planned, you may need to supplement with formula or donor breast milk — and that’s OK
Breastfeeding supplements can be a needless expense at best, and risky at worst
Typically, milk comes in a few days after birth and regulates around four weeks after delivery
Most parents report an improvement in breastfeeding, but there’s a chance the procedure won’t solve the issue
From the football hold to the cradle hold, consider trying a variety of techniques
Your metabolism may torch 1,300 to 2,000 calories daily with no activity
A gentle touch in all the right places may help drain your sinuses