“You will use an extra 500 calories a day while producing breast milk for your baby.” I heard this over and over again. I was so excited, I could eat and still lose weight. Oh, except 500 calories is not an extra piece of cake topped with ice cream and chocolate syrup, EVERYDAY.
Every woman is different. There are SO many factors in weight control that you cannot possibly keep track. You may be gaining weight everyday, while a mom with the same age baby, producing the same amount of breast milk is losing at a consistent rate. You cannot compare yourself to anyone else when it comes to gaining or losing weight while breastfeeding or breast pumping.
The most important thing to remember during this wonderful adventure is that you are giving your baby the best possible nutrition that you can offer. If you can continue to breastfeed orpump for 6 months, or maybe even for a year, then you have done so much for beautiful little angel. After this time, you can begin to worry, again, about your weight and do whatever necessary to lose those extra pounds. Just keep in mind, “It is not forever” and “I am doing such an incredible thing for my baby.” Listen to your body. If you find your milk supply decreasing, increase your food intake in addition to your liquid intake. On the other hand, if you are gaining weight, and your supply seems to be good, decrease your caloric intake slowly. Again, LISTEN, no one will need the same amount of calories, your body will let you know how much you need.
