Breastfeeding is one of the most important things that a mother can do for her newborn baby's health. But wait…it’s not only the baby’s health that needs to be taken into consideration. Instead, the mother should also take care of her health, and staying hydrated is a crucial part of that.
And we all know that, the key to staying hydrated is drinking more water. But let me tell there are mothers who are not aware of this. Due to this, they are often asked questions like, should they be drinking more water while breastfeeding their children?
This blog post has discussed the answer to this question in complete detail.
Also, read our blog post about Can Water Help You Stay Healthy Winter
Should you be drinking more water when you're breastfeeding?
The answer to the question is “yes,” drinking more water for women when they are breastfeeding is crucial. This is so because, breastfeeding can be dehydrating, says medical experts. They also suggest staying hydrated to maintain proper milk supply and overall health being.
However, it is important to note women should make sure the water they are drinking is completely hazardous contaminants. Consuming water that is polluted with toxic contaminants will not only affect the mother's health, but also her beloved baby.
The best ways and most effective ways to ensure the water is clean and safe is by filtering it with the help of a water filtration system. Water filters are specially designed systems that efficiently remove a range of impurities from the water, making it 100% safe to drink.
How much quantity of water should you drink while breastfeeding children?
You’re hydrating both yourself and your child when you are breastfeeding. Since water makes up 90% of breast milk, it's important to understand what quantity to drink during breastfeeding.
If you're breastfeeding, you should be consuming approximately 128 ounces (16 cups) of water daily, says the Academy of Nutritions and Dietetics. However, studies have shown that breastfeeding moms don't require more fluid intake than what is required to quench their thirst.
Moreover, 16-ounce make 128 ounces feel like a substantial amount, but 8 ounces is actually a rather tiny serving size. You ought to be capable of hitting that 128-ounce target if you have one 8-ounce glass of water before and after every feeding, in addition to drinking it with meals.
How Drinking Water Impact on Milk Production?
It would seem sensible to consume extra water and other fluids to assist in raising your milk production if it starts to decline. Nevertheless, there is little evidence that consuming more water than usual will result in a rise in milk supply, according to studies on the impact of extra water on milk production, supply, and infant growth.
Therefore, consuming too much water when breastfeeding has no advantages. Just consume enough water to maintain proper hydration.
However, drinking inadequate water can lead to dehydration, which can harm your well-being and the quality of your breast milk. To ensure that your body is functioning at its best, it is crucial to ensure you are consuming enough fluids.
Potential Tips for Staying Hydrated While Breastfeeding
It's simple for a new mother to prioritize her child's demands over her own when you are focused on them. Making an effort to keep hydrated as part of your self-care routine can guarantee that your child receives the nourishment they require to grow and thrive. Here are a few tips for doing this:
· Keep an entire water bottle next to your preferred breastfeeding location at all times. None of it is more annoying than being dehydrated while spending forty-five minutes a day feeding your child on a sofa.
· Place a bottle of water on your chair at home, in your vehicle's drink holder, in your handbag, and next to your exercise machine. Keeping water close at hand will serve as a helpful reminder to sip it over the day.
· If you struggle to make yourself drink water, try "timing" how much you drink. Try to take a few sips of water when the hourly alarm goes off by setting one for each hour. It won't be long before you'll drink water regularly.
· Eat those foods that are rich in water, like vegetables, soups, cucumbers, and watermelon.
· If you want to make your water more appetizing, consider including fruit, a little juice, or a bit of lemon.
· Get a hydration application for your smartphone to help you monitor your daily water intake.
· Avoid consuming excessive amounts of tea, coffee, and soda. An excessive amount may cause a diuretic reaction, which might cause your body to become dehydrated.
Overall, you should be concentrating on other things, not worrying about whether or not you are getting sufficient water, as you tend to your newborn. Maintaining enough hydration will support your body's production of milk and allow you to feel more energized.
Get the recommended daily intake of water by following these guidelines to maintain your health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much quantity of water should I drink while breastfeeding?
You should drink at least 16 cups in a single as a breastfeeding mother. But keep in mind, that this limit may vary depending on multiple factors like climate, weight/body size, activity levels, etc.
Can I drink other beverages besides water?
Yes, you can drink other beverages like milk, juices, herbal tea, etc. instead of water. However, it is essential to note that, you avoid beverages that contain alcohol, caffeine, or added sugar.
What are some common signs of dehydration in breastfeeding mothers?
Some common signs of dehydration in breastfeeding mothers include:
· Dark urine
· Dry mouth
· Fatigue
· Headache
· Infrequent urination
If you are experiencing any of these signs, it is necessary for you to immediately connect with a professional doctor.
Final Thoughts
Breastfeeding women should be drinking more water (at least 16 cups a day) to stay hydrated. Doing this will not only result in better milk production and supply but also help in maintaining overall health.