Breastfeeding On An Organic Plant-Based Diet! Is It Possible?

While the idea of breastfeeding on a plant-based diet may raise some eyebrows, vegan mommies are becoming more and more popular all over the world today.

But just like any other breastfeeding mom, you’ll need to ensure that your child is getting all the nutrients they need. This means eating the right foods to help your body produce nutritious milk while meeting your own requirements.

Here are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you’re getting exactly what you need while breastfeeding on an organic plant-based diet.

Coconut Milk/Cream

Coconut cream is perhaps one of the most essential foods to include in your diet while breastfeeding.

For starters, it contains lauric acid, an antibacterial and antimicrobial compound which helps to boost immunity. This is necessary for the baby to guard against the risk of infection, which is a possibility during the infantile period.

Coconut milk is also rich in iron, a nutrient that’s essential for new mothers who tend to feel lethargic and exhausted. By replenishing the iron stores in the body, you can get that extra boost to stay active and alert and give your baby all the attention they need.

Iron is also essential for the baby’s body in the development of the spinal cord and in the creation of both red and white blood cells.

Finally, coconut milk is also rich in magnesium, a compound that is directly linked to nerve impulses and stress. Adequate magnesium helps you stay calm which is essential as stress can interfere with the body’s ability to lactate. A diet rich in magnesium can help alleviate symptoms of stress and make it easier for your body to produce milk.

Eat Healthy Fats

Unsaturated fatty acids (especially omega-3) are essential to fuel your baby’s growth.

The development of the eyes, skin, brain, and nervous system requires the presence of omega-3. And eating enough healthy fats will help your body produce milk containing omega-3. In fact, it has been proven that babies who are nursed with milk rich in this nutrient tend to have better vision and clearer skin as they get older.

One of the most easily-absorbable sources of omega-3 would be chia seeds, and a daily cup offers all the healthy fats you need to give your baby the nutrition they deserve.

Aside from helping your baby, healthy fats also help to boost your caloric intake which is essential while breastfeeding as your body uses up a lot of energy which needs to be replenished.

Get Enough Protein

We’re all aware by now that a plant-based diet is fully capable of meeting your daily protein requirements. And breastfeeding moms require a lot more protein than usual while lactating.

Babies’ bodies use protein for the development of muscles, bones, and other tissues. Protein aids the body in growth, repair, and renewal of cells which occurs at an accelerated pace in the body of an infant.

Moms also need enough protein to rebuild tissues that are worn out during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This nutrient helps to replenish cells after they’ve been overworked by the body in the production of milk.

While tempeh and tofu happen to be popular sources of vegan protein, breastfeeding moms should consider two other foods - quinoa and peas.

These two protein-dense foods contain the complete amino acid profile making it easy for your body to synthesize and utilize protein effectively.

More importantly, these two foods are loaded with fiber which helps the body absorb nutrients from food more effectively. This fiber is also needed by the baby in order to effectively digest the milk and ensure healthy bowel movements.

Fortify Your Diet With A Bit of Magic

Aside from these essential nutrients, a baby’s body also needs vitamin b12 which you can add to your diet with the help of supplements.

However, if you’re not really into taking supplements, grab a bag of our Chocolate Magic Protein Powder! It’s made from organic, natural plants and contains coconut cream, quinoa, pea protein, chia seeds, vitamin b12, and a host of other nutrients you need for a healthy, happy baby.

Breastfeeding is a special phase of a woman’s life. It’s when you forge a special bond with your baby and you want to cherish this time as much as possible. By staying healthy, uplifted, and energized, you can enjoy breastfeeding without allowing it to tire you out or deplete your body of nutrients.

By integrating the right nutrition into your diet you can enjoy the entire process and give your baby the care they deserve to grow into a happy, healthy, and loving individual.