Postpartum Nutrition
After giving birth is a great time to re-evaluate your nutritional needs. A good diet is especially important to help keep you healthy and supply you with the energy needed to care for your new baby. Remember to drink plenty of fluids. Drink to satisfy your thirst, but be sure to drink 8 to 10 glasses of liquid per day. The following charts are guides to food groups and serving sizes for postpartum mothers. For more information on individualized eating plans, go to www.mypyramid.gov.
The Breastfeeding Mother
If you are breastfeeding, weight loss should occur slowly. You may safely lose about 3 to 4 pounds each month without reducing your milk supply, as long as you eat at least the minimum number of recommended servings. Eat 4 to 6 small meals per day.
Daily food guide for the postpartum mother |
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Recommended minimum number of servings |
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FOOD GROUP |
If breastfeeding |
If bottlefeeding |
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Mother's Age 11-24 years |
Mother's Age Over 25 years |
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Protein foods |
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6 1/2 |
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5 |
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5 |
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Milk products |
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3 |
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3 |
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2 |
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Breads, cereals, grains |
8 |
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7 |
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6 |
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Fruits |
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2 cups |
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5 |
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5 |
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Vegetables |
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3 cups |
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Unsaturated fats |
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3 |
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3 |
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3 |
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Related Information
Beyond the basic food groups
- food suggestions and serving sizes
Vitamins and minerals in your diet
Iron-rich foods