‘What I Eat in a Day’ as a Breastfeeding Mom

What I eat in a day as a breastfeeding Mom…

I was on my spin bike recently and to pass the time I began watching “What I eat in a day” YouTube videos from breastfeeding Moms. I was really surprised by the lack of knowledge, comments made and more importantly lack of FOOD. I am not going to place judgement on anyone, because everyone is entitled to their own opinion and follow a meal plan that works for them, but what bothers me is that these influencers may encourage other Mom’s who are looking for help or guidance during this really fragile time, to follow suit. Like cutting out fruit completely, because it’s “too high in sugar” or not eating carbs after 5:00 p.m.!! WHAT?!!! I think I would die.

If you’re a breastfeeding Mom like me then you probably have gotten the hungry horrors at 1:00 a.m. while you’re up nursing your little one. That’s exactly why I have a stash of snacks in my nightstand drawer and that stash has been a lifesaver for me more times than I can count. Even if you’re not breastfeeding, but you’re caring for a baby or chasing around a toddler, it’s important to keep yourself nourished and fueled for the day.

It’s ok to watch videos or read blogs to get meal ideas from others, especially if they’re promoting better health, but what’s most important is listening to your body and what it needs right now. Dieting, restricting calories or cutting out food groups is not what you need right now, as a breastfeeding Mom. You need extra calories (300-500), lots of nutrients, extra snacks, and more water. You shouldn’t have to worry about tracking every calorie, but if it helps that’s ok, as long as you’re fueling your body right. I will admit, I have tracked my food intake a few times recently to make sure I am eating enough!

I love sharing my meal ideas with others to educate and inspire and I love following others who do the same, but don’t get trapped into thinking you should be dieting because it’s the only way you’ll lose the baby weight FAST.

Trust me when I say, slow and steady wins the race! It’s more sustainable and you’ll be able to put your focus on your growing babe during this precious time!

Here is a sample of what I eat in a day:

Oatmeal with flax seeds + fruit to start my day (helps with lactation!)

Two salads a day loaded with greens and topped with avocado!

Lean proteins like chicken, salmon for healthy omega 3s, hard boiled eggs and legumes.

My go to carb sources are sweet potatoes, whole grain crackers, Ezekiel toast, oats and brown rice and I include one of these with every meal.

Snacks throughout the day include berries, nuts like almonds and cashews, hard boiled eggs, cottage cheese, protein muffins and organic low sugar protein bars when I’m on the go.

Snacks, snack and more snacks right before bed to prevent me from getting the hungry horrors at night!

Lots of water, 1 decaf coffee in the morning, and decaf green tea throughout the day.

I eat 6 or 7 times a day. YES 7!!!

My top three favorite meals to make are veggie omelets, taco salads and homemade soups! {Comment below with your favorite healthy meal ideas!}

I eat when I’m hungry and stop when I’m full. I treat myself with ice cream and peanut butter when I want it and never feel guilty! I’ve been able to return to my pre-pregnancy weight without restricting and you can too!

For more meal ideas, support and motivation, join my tribe!

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Move-It Mama Tribe: A free supportive community of woman ready to commit to their health, fitness and life goals!

Xo Stephanie