Locations:
SearchAdvertisement
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.
Advertisement
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.
Advertisement
If you’re not getting enough calories, these cookies may help — but a balanced diet is a better way to increase milk supply
Hand expression follows a specific rhythmic pattern to trigger a breast milk let-down
Relactation can reproduce breast milk after two to four weeks
This no-water trend increases your risk of dehydration, as well as other issues
A well-balanced diet of whole grains, salmon, leafy greens and more can help maintain energy and increase milk supply
An occasional drink is OK, and you can safely nurse your baby after the alcohol has left your breast milk
Recommendations encourage breast milk exclusively for baby’s first six months and continuing to provide human milk until age 2 and beyond
Planning ahead, checking in with your care team and being vigilant about blood sugar monitoring can help ensure a safe fast
Focus on your body’s metabolic set point by eating healthy foods, making exercise a part of your routine and reducing stress
PFAS chemicals may make life easier — but they aren’t always so easy on the human body
While there’s little risk in trying this hair care treatment, there isn’t much science to back up the claims
