If you have decided to feed your baby by Breastfeeding, Congratulations. Many mothers decide not to do it and it is a completely respectable option, every mother has the right to make these kinds of decisions. However, breastfeeding is one of the best gifts what you can do to your child. The baby will receive all the nutrients necessary for its growth, as well as protection against infection.
Through breast milk, the baby receives antibodies that his body does not yet make. In this way you are protected and your body will be prepared in the event of possible attacks by bacteria or viruses. As you can see, breastfeeding it is very beneficial for babiesBut it may not be easy for the mother, at least in the beginning. Establishing successful breastfeeding takes a lot of patience and in many cases, help from your midwife or lactation consultant.
Breastfeeding consumes a lot of energy
During breastfeeding, your body works on full steam to produce the milk your baby needs. The extra expenditure of energy that this whole process entails, can cause you to be more tired, to lack energy. Therefore, it is very important that you take good care of yourself during this stage. In this way you will be making sure that your child eats correctly, but without neglecting your health, which is essential.
How to avoid fatigue during breastfeeding?
Milk production it depends on your diet and your physical conditionTherefore, it is essential that you do not neglect certain aspects.
feeding
Feed yourself properly will help you stay healthy and energeticKeep in mind that while your baby feeds, it subtracts calories from your body. You should eat foods that give you that extra energy that you now need, such as protein and slow-absorbing carbohydrates. Include legumes, lean meats, fish, milk and all its derivatives in your menus.
You should also eat high-fiber foods like vegetables and whole grain cereals like oatmeal. These foods are digested more slowly, this way you get long-term energy. Make sure you also eat foods rich in iron, since a deficiency of this mineral can cause tiredness and fatigue.
Hydration
This is another of the key points that you should watch during breastfeeding, it is very important that you stay well hydrated. Lack of fluid causes your bodily functions are not working properly, causing you to feel fatigued and without energy. Also, the milk you produce depends on the amount of fluids you drink. Try to drink at least two liters of water a day, in addition to other liquids such as milk.
The best way to control the water you drink is, having a bottle of water always at hand. In this way you will remember to drink every little time and you will know how much you have taken in the day.
Rest
La Breastfeeding It is exhausting for the mother for many reasons, because of the energy drain, because it is on demand and you can spend hours with the baby at the breast. But mostly because you will not be able to rest several hours in a row for some time. All babies are not the same and you may be one of the lucky ones who sleeps through the night, but in most cases it is not.
Little by little the baby will regulate his sleep hours, his stomach capacity will grow and with each feeding he will be satisfied for longer. This will help you to sleep more hours in a row and therefore, you too. While this is happening, it is essential rest whenever you have a chance. Take advantage of your baby's naps to sleep with him, forget about things that are not important right now, such as the house.
Watch your health
It is a normal attitude of mothers, to worry about the welfare of their children over their own. Instinct itself marks this attitude, but you must be aware that your baby depends on you at this time. You should be healthy both physically and mentally. Go to your gynecological check-ups to make sure you are recovering properly.
Monitor your emotional state, it is very important that you do not underestimate your feelings right now. There is a fine line between burnout and depression. Do not hesitate to comment on these feelings to your doctor, together you will look for a solution and a follow-up to check that everything is correct.
Breastfeeding is exhausting, but its benefits for both the baby and the mother, are much greater both in the short and long term.