Women who are breastfeeding need to replenish their nutrient stores and remain healthy to produce enough nutrient-rich milk. Although lactation increases energy use by about 600 kcal a day during the first six months of breastfeeding, it is recommended that intake be increased by only 330 kcal a day, as the remaining energy will come from fat stored during pregnancy. During the second six months of lactation a woman’s body weight is generally stable and the recommended increase in energy intake is equal to the energy present in the milk produced each day (400 kcal). As with pregnancy, energy needs should be met by consuming nutrient dense foods.

There are a few physical conditions that preclude new mothers from breastfeeding their babies. These conditions include HIV/AIDS, herpes simplex or chicken pox lesions on one or both nipples, alcohol or drug addiction, nipples that have been removed and replaced, or cancer treated with cytotoxic drugs. Otherwise, most chronic conditions can be managed with drugs that are safe to take while breastfeeding. Despite the encouraging news that more women are breastfeeding, there are challenges that make breastfeeding difficult for some. (INFOGRAPHIC 17.9)

Question 17.4