Healthy Mommy

With the advent of every New Year, many of us focus on resolutions:  get more organized, get fit, or learn something new. We even wrote it about a few weeks ago. However, there’s also something else you can do that doesn’t have to be focused on a number or a goal. Just be healthy.  While it is no secret that breastfeeding can help spur weight loss, there are some things that the nursing mom should keep in mind for a healthy 2013.

Remember that the U.S. Surgeon General and major medical organizations including the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby’s life for optimal nutrition and health for the baby. In addition, it helps mom by reducing the risk of diabetes and some cancers.

Breastfeeding also has environmental and economic benefits, since it eliminates the cost and waste associated with formula production and plastic bottles. Depending on the formula brand, breastfeeding can save you up to $4,000 per year.

So, if you are going to breastfeed for your baby’s health, as well as yours and your wallets, make sure you eat nutrient-rich foods, stay hydrated and get enough rest. (The Academy mentions that many moms take a nap while their babies sleep – take that naptime for yourself and worry about cleaning the house or catching up on calls later!)

To keep yourself healthy while keeping your energy level high, Webmd.com recommends 12 foods – from salmon and low-fat dairy products to legumes and leafy greens. According to the story, a nursing mom’s body will provide the nutrients the baby needs from her stores if she isn’t getting them from her diet. “But for your own well-being, it's best to make sure you're obtaining the nutrients your baby needs by incorporating a variety of healthy breastfeeding foods in your nursing mom food plan.”

If you are a nursing mom, what do you do to keep healthy and fit while breastfeeding?