Whether you're a new mom or a seasoned parenting pro, breastfeeding
often comes with its fair share of questions. Here are answers to some common queries
that mothers — new and veteran — may have.

What should I eat?
Just as when you were pregnant, it's important to eat well while you're breastfeeding,
with plenty of wholesome fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein, and calcium-rich
foods. Follow the recommendations in the MyPlate
food guide and you'll be well on your way to giving both you and your baby a nutritious
diet.
Your diet doesn't have to be perfect. You need an estimated 300-500 extra calories
per day as a breastfeeding mother. Breastfeeding might make you thirsty, so consider
keeping a water bottle nearby so it's there when you need it.
Also ask your doctor if you should still take your prenatal vitamins — many
doctors have women continue them during breastfeeding. To prevent problems associated
with iodine deficiency, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that
all lactating women take a supplement that contains 150 micrograms of iodine per day,
use iodized salt in their cooking, and eat foods high in iodine, like seafood and
dairy products. If you are vegan or don't eat dairy or fish, talk to your doctor about
getting checked for iodine deficiency.
Does my breastfed baby have an allergy?
A breastfed baby may have an allergy or sensitivity reaction after the mother consumes
certain foods or drinks (such as common food allergens like cow's milk, soy foods,
wheat, corn, oats, eggs, nuts and peanuts, and fish or shellfish).
Signs of a baby having such a reaction to food can include:
- frequent spitting up or vomiting
- apparent belly pain (lots of gas and/or pulling up the knees in pain)
- bloody, mucousy stools (poop)
- hard stools
- rash and swelling
If you think your baby has had a reaction to food, call your doctor and avoid eating
or drinking anything your little one can't seem to tolerate. If your baby has difficulty
with feeding, try to keep a journal of exactly what you eat and drink, along
with any reactions your baby had, which could help both you and your doctor pinpoint
what the problem food, or foods, might be.
Although such a reaction is extremely rare, if your child has trouble breathing
or has swelling of the face, call 911.