Intermittent Fasting While Breastfeeding: Is It Safe?

Intermittent fasting (IF) has become a prominent dietary trend for its benefits in weight management and health improvement. Yet, for mothers who are breastfeeding, the decision to adopt an intermittent fasting regimen warrants careful consideration

Let’s find out the critical aspects and potential implications of intermittent fasting for lactating mothers, addressing the pressing question: is intermittent fasting safe during breastfeeding?

The Critical Role of Nutrition in Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a significant phase in a mother’s and baby’s life, necessitating optimal nutrition for both. As breast milk serves as the primary nutritional source for infants, it’s essential to explore how intermittent fasting affects breast milk supply and whether it aligns with the nutritional demands of this period.

Can you do intermittent fasting when breastfeeding?

The intersection of intermittent fasting and breastfeeding raises concerns among healthcare professionals, with many advising against intermittent fasting for lactating mothers. Here’s why:

• Nutrient needs: During breastfeeding, a mother’s body requires extra calories and nutrients to support milk production and her own energy needs, even more than when she was pregnant. She will need to add up to 500 calories a day to her nutrition. If you’re practicing intermittent fasting (IF) and don’t eat enough while breastfeeding, your body may not be able to produce adequate levels of milk for the little one.
• Hormonal fluctutations: Intermittent fasting can alter insulin and other hormone levels, which might affect breast milk supply and its nutritional content.
• Energy levels: Fasting can lead to reduced energy levels during such an energy-consuming period, which may affect a mother’s ability to care for her baby and meet the demands of breastfeeding.
• Hydration: Although intermittent fasting doesn’t have any restrictions on water, tea, coffee, or herbal tea consumption, being on a certain eating pattern may limit fluid intake, which can be detrimental to a breastfeeding mother who needs to stay well-hydrated.
• Stress and mood: Being more hungry and thirsty during the first few months of breastfeeding is completely normal, as your body is also feeding another human being. Not eating anything for a certain time, a.k.a practicing intermittent fasting, may contribute to increased stress levels and mood swings, which can affect a mother’s overall well-being.

How can I do intermittent fasting while breastfeeding?

‍If your gynecologist approves, you may go back to intermittent fasting while nursing around 6 months postpartum, as by this time most women have a well-established milk supply and breastfeeding routine.

Consult your OB/GYN to find the most suitable intermittent fasting schedule for you, and talk to a dietitian to learn your optimal caloric needs. Consuming less than 1800 calories a day results in changes in milk composition and supply. A fasting plan with a wide eating window like 12/12 may be suitable for this period.

If you need a companion on your fasting journey, Fasting Kompanion will provide you with useful tips.

Prolonged fasts aren’t recommended during breastfeeding, and likewise during pregnancy. Fasting plans like 18/6 or 20/4 puts the body in the ketosis state where the body produces ketone bodies to use as fuel. The overproduction of ketone bodies may lead to the development of ketoacidosis, which is a life-threatening condition for the mother.

Healthy alternatives to intermittent fasting for breastfeeding mothers

Rather than adopting intermittent fasting, breastfeeding mothers are encouraged to focus on a balanced and nutritious diet. Here are some guidelines to consider:

• Prioritize nutrient-rich foods: Opt for whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats to ensure you’re getting the essential nutrients needed for breastfeeding.
• Have frequent and small meals: Instead of fasting, consider eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to maintain energy levels and meet nutritional needs.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support milk production and overall health.
• Consult your doctor: Always seek advice from healthcare providers before making dietary changes, especially during breastfeeding.

Conclusion: Navigating intermittent fasting and breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is not the ideal time to restrict nutrition because milk production is sensitive to dietary changes. Intermittent fasting while breastfeeding is generally discouraged due to potential adverse effects on both mother and child. The emphasis should be on ensuring optimal nutrition for milk production and maternal well-being.

If you are considering intermittent fasting or any other dietary changes while breastfeeding, consult a healthcare professional for guidance tailored to your unique situation.