Staying hydrated is an important part of breastfeeding health. These women need to drink more water to continue producing milk and ensure their water needs are met. Here are some helpful tips to help breastfeeding moms stay healthy.
1. Drink more water.
Try to drink eight to twelve glasses of water every day. Although drinking water is the best way to stay hydrated, you can also drink milk, herbal teas, and reduced juices. After and during breastfeeding, it is important to pay attention to your body and drink water when you are thirsty.
2. Make water easily accessible
Whether you prefer to breastfeed on the couch, in bed or in the high chair, keep a bottle of water on hand. This will help you remember to drink water with each feeding. If you want to better track how much water you drink, use a large bottle that you can change throughout the day.
3. Eat water-rich foods
Add water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables to your diet. Cucumbers, grapes, tomatoes, oranges and celery are just a few foods rich in water-retaining minerals and vitamins.
4. No or very little caffeine intake
Caffeine makes you thirsty, and some children may have problems if they drink too much caffeine. Limit coffee, tea and other caffeinated drinks, or opt for decaffeinated drinks. If you drink coffee, make sure you balance it with plenty of water.
5. Check the color of your urine
The color of your urine is a good indication of how well hydrated you are. The goal is for the urine to be light yellow. Dark yellow or brown urine may mean you are dehydrated. If you notice that your urine is always dark, you should drink more water.
6. Remind yourself to drink water
If you struggle to drink water every day, set your phone to remind you or use an app that can remind you. Some apps can also help you track how much water you drink each day.
7. Insert the straw
Drinking through a straw can help you drink more water during the day. Put a reusable straw in your water bottle to make drinking water easier and more fun.
8. Don’t drink alcohol,
Because alcohol can cause you to lose water, it is best to avoid it or drink it in moderation while breastfeeding. If you decide to drink, make sure there is a long period between drinking and breastfeeding, and then drink plenty of water to offset any dehydrating effects.
9. Pay attention to your body
Watch for signs of dehydration, such as thirst, dry mouth, headache, lightheadedness, or lightheadedness. Once you hear these tips, drink more water.
10. Talk to a healthcare provider
If you are concerned about the amount of water you drink or how drinking water affects your milk production, contact a lactation specialist or doctor. They can help you based on your individual needs.
If you are breastfeeding, it is important that both you and your baby stay healthy. By following these daily tips to stay hydrated, you can ensure that both you and your baby are healthy and happy.