Are Protein Powders Safe For Breastfeeding Moms?
Disclosure: I may get commissions when you click through the affiliate links (that are great products I stand by) on my articles. You can read the full disclosure for more information. Content is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
Breastfeeding is an exciting and challenging time for mothers and their babies. In order to keep up with the increased energy demands on her body, a breastfeeding mom’s nutritional requirements increase significantly to meet the growing demands of the baby. Afterall breastfeeding a new baby uses approximately 500-700 extra calories a day!
Protein is one such nutrient that is essential in this phase for both mother and baby. It can be challenging to get the required amount of protein from food alone, and this is where protein powders come in.
The safety of most protein powders used for breastfeeding moms has been a topic of concern so it is worth understanding why protein powders are used and examining if they are safe before introducing them into your diet while breastfeeding. In this article, I will discuss the safety of protein powders for breastfeeding moms, the benefits of protein, and suggest some of the best protein powders to use during lactation.
Are protein powders safe for breastfeeding moms?
In general the answer is yes, protein powders specifically designed for lactating women are considered safe for breastfeeding moms. Many health experts consider a breastfeeding protein powder an essential product for nursing mothers and recommend supplementing with a quality protein powder to help meet the nutritional needs of both the mother and the baby.
When selecting a protein powder, it is important to choose one that is free of artificial sweeteners and fillers, which can be potentially harmful to babies. Additionally, make sure to purchase a product from a reputable brand that is consistently recognized for safety and purity.
Many protein powders are safe for breastfeeding moms to consume. However, it is essential to choose a protein powder that is specifically formulated for lactation or breastfeeding moms. These powders are designed to meet the nutritional requirements of both the mother and the baby and do not contain any harmful ingredients.
Why is protein essential for breastfeeding mothers and babies?
Adequate intake of proteins can help prevent muscle loss, support stronger immunity, maintain healthy skin and hair, enhance milk production, and provide essential building blocks for baby’s growth and development. Additionally, protein-rich foods can help stabilize blood sugar levels, boost energy and metabolism, regulate hormones, and promote feelings of satiety and fullness.
Breast milk is naturally rich in protein, providing essential amino acids that aid in building and repairing tissues. During lactation, a mother’s protein requirement increases to support milk production, especially during the first six months of the baby’s life when breastfeeding is likely to be most frequent. Protein is also essential for the mother’s body, as it helps to repair damaged tissues, maintain a healthy immune system, aid in digestion and is a big contributor to the success of breastfeeding.
How much protein should I have when breastfeeding?
The recommended protein intake for a breastfeeding mother is about 1.9 grams per kg of bodyweight per day. However, the actual amount may vary depending on various factors such as the mother’s weight, height, age, and level of physical activity. It is crucial to maintain a balanced diet that provides enough protein and other essential nutrients.
The benefits of protein for breastfeeding moms
Protein has various benefits for breastfeeding mothers, including:
Helps with weight loss:
Protein powders can help you lose weight by keeping you fuller for longer, reducing your overall calorie intake. Additionally, protein can help to preserve lean muscle mass, which is essential for healthy weight loss. Protein powders specifically designed for lactating women are considered safe and are a great way to get the required amount of protein while breastfeeding. Not only do they provide all the necessary nutrients, but they can also help with weight loss when you have had a baby.
Supports healthy milk production and supply:
Protein is vital for the production of breast milk, as it contains the essential amino acids necessary for building and repairing tissues. Protein also helps to maintain adequate energy levels and improve the quality of breast milk. Adequate protein intake is essential for maintaining a healthy breast milk supply too, and protein powders can help to ensure that you’re getting enough protein to meet your needs.
Provides essential nutrients
Protein powders specifically designed for lactating women provide the essential amino acids that are necessary for the synthesis of breast milk components such as proteins and enzymes. They can help you meet the increased protein requirements during lactation and support healthy milk production.
As mentioned earlier, protein is essential for healthy immunity as it aids in building and repairing tissues. Adequate intake of proteins can help to boost the immune system and protect both mother and baby against infections. Additionally, adequate protein intake can help reduce the risk of developing mastitis or other breastfeeding-related problems.
A greater intake of high-quality proteins has been linked to increased concentrations of certain nutrients in breast milk such as zinc and phosphorous. Protein powders can be a quick and effective way to get the essential nutrients you need while supporting your overall health.
What to look for in a protein powder while breastfeeding
Also, consider the type of protein used in the powder. If you or your baby are sensitive to dairy products, opt for a plant-based protein powder like organic pea protein, rice protein, or chia seed protein.
If you are using a protein powder for weight loss or as a meal replacement, ensure that it contains healthy fats and enough protein to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Remember, while protein powders can be a convenient and effective way to supplement your diet, they should not replace whole-food protein sources entirely.
Why use breastfeeding protein powder when breastfeeding?
Here are 8 reasons that breastfeeding moms may choose to use protein powders when breastfeeding:
Convenience
Increased protein needs
Helps with weight loss
Supports lactation
Nutrient dense
Plant based options
Allergen friendly
Boosts energy
Convenience: Protein powders can be a quick and easy way to supplement your diet with protein without having to spend time preparing and cooking meals.
Increased protein needs: Breastfeeding moms have higher protein requirements than non-breastfeeding women, and protein powders can help meet those increased needs.
Helps with weight loss: Protein powders can be a helpful tool in weight loss efforts, as they can help you feel full and satisfied and prevent overeating by curbing hunger.
Supports lactation: Adequate protein intake is important for milk production, and protein powders can help ensure that moms are getting enough protein to support lactation. Moms worried about producing enough milk may choose to use a protein powder to help increase their milk supply. Learn about other common breastfeeding problems and how to fix them here.
Nutrient-dense: Protein powders can be a good source of vitamins and minerals, making them a nutrient-dense option for busy moms.
Plant-based options: Plant-based protein powders are available for moms who prefer not to consume animal products or who have dietary restrictions.
Allergen friendly: Protein powders can be a good option for moms with food allergies
Boosts energy: Protein powders can provide an energy boost, which can be helpful for busy moms who need a quick pick-me-up during the day.
Does protein powder increase milk supply?
Evidence suggests that using protein powder for breastfeeding, can help to increase milk supply and ensure that your baby is receiving all the essential nutrients they need. Protein powder contains important nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids, which are all important for a healthy milk supply. Additionally, some studies have found that consuming a protein-rich diet can help to increase breast milk volume. It is always advisable to speak with your healthcare provider before trying any type of supplement while breastfeeding.
If you decide to use a protein powder while breastfeeding, always opt for products specifically designed for lactation or breastfeeding and be sure to choose ones with high-quality ingredients. Additionally, remember that protein powder is not a substitute for whole food sources and should always be used in moderation.
Choosing the best protein powder for breastfeeding moms
With so many protein powders on the market, it can be difficult to know which one to choose.
When choosing a protein powder, it is important to consider the source of the protein, the ingredients used, and the manufacturing process.
Whey protein powder is a popular choice for many breastfeeding moms, as it is a high-quality protein source that contains all the essential amino acids. However, some moms may prefer plant-based protein powders, such as organic pea protein or rice protein, which are easier to digest and may be better tolerated by some.
When selecting a protein powder, be sure to read the label carefully and look for products that are specifically marketed as safe protein powders for breastfeeding mothers. It’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or supplement regimen.
Ingredients to look for:
Ingredients to avoid:
When selecting a protein powder, be sure to avoid products with added sugars, artificial sweeteners, or fillers. Some brands may add ingredients such as herbs and spices that can interfere with milk supply or digestion. Pay close attention to the label and look for low-sugar options without any unnecessary additives.
Here are the 5 best protein powders for breastfeeding moms:
Green Vanilla Nourishing Lactation Protein Powder
.
Boobie Body Organic Pregnancy and Lactation Vegan Protein Shake Chocolate Bliss
Ora Organic Vegan Protein Powder
Milk Dust Breastfeeding Protein Powder for Milk Supply
Upspring Milkflow Electrolyte Breastfeeding Supplement Drink Mix with Fenugreek
So, are protein shakes good for breastfeeding moms?
Protein powders can be a safe and effective way to supplement your diet while breastfeeding, but it’s important to choose the right product for you and your baby. Look for protein powders that are specifically designed for breastfeeding mothers, contain high-quality protein sources, and are free of harmful chemicals and additives.
Many moms consider a good protein powder an essential product while breastfeeding. By choosing the right protein powder for breastfeeding moms, you can support your milk production, maintain a healthy weight, and ensure that your baby is receiving all the nutrients they need to thrive.
It’s important to remember that while protein powders can be beneficial for breastfeeding mothers, they are not meant to replace breast milk or formula for the baby and should not, under any circumstances, be given directly to a baby. If you have any concerns about your baby’s nutrition, it’s always best to speak with your healthcare provider.
Safe protein powders for breastfeeding FAQ’s
Final thoughts
There is so much conflicting advice that new moms have to navigate when it comes to learning how to stay healthy when breastfeeding. Moms always want to prioritize the health of their babies of course but it is important to look after ourselves too. If we are in optimal health, especially if we choose to breastfeed, then the health benefits will be passed onto our babies.
Learn more about breastfeeding essentials here.
Read my post on the top 10 breastfeeding books for moms whatever stage you are in your breastfeeding journey.
Want to know what parenting myths to ignore?! Read my post 43 Parenting myths: What you should ignore and what you need to know.
Generated with Pin Generator
