Fasting and Breastfeeding
It is important to point out
It is important to point out
This article addresses, in general, nursing women who have no specific problem, and the guidelines are general. If you know or think that your condition requires medical consultation or a personal ruling, do not hesitate to contact a reliable source and share all the sensations you are concerned about.
Many women have questions about fasting during breastfeeding. If you are fasting for religious reasons, consult both a medical practitioner and a religious advisor. If you are fasting for nutritional and balancing reasons, it is essential to consult a nutritionist. The impact of fasting on breastfeeding is contingent on the baby’s age, the duration of fasting, and your nursing condition.
If it is a specific fast (Yom Kippur or 9th of Av), get well hydrated in the days leading up to the fasting day. If you are fasting a prolonged fast, such as Ramadan, or an intermittent fast, get well hydrated in the hours in which you are allowed to eat and drink.
If you decide to fast while breastfeeding, start preparing several days in advance
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1The days before fasting
In the days leading up to a one-day fast, drink plenty of water, aiming for 3–4 liters per day.
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2In a prolonged fast
Drink 2-3 liters in the hours between fasting.
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3As you approach the fast or in the evening when you can eat
It is recommended to consume foods that will help you fast, such as complex carbohydrates like whole wheat bread, whole rice, legumes, and whole grains.
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4Pumping
It is advised to pump a portion of breast milk before starting to fast, so you can feed your baby towards the end of fasting if needed.
During the fast
- Try to rest as much as you can. Even if the rest of the family is also fasting, do not hesitate to ask for assistance if needed.
- Breastfeed your baby just as often as you would on a normal day. It is essential, even during fasting, to promote milk production to prevent congestion or inflammation.
On a specific fasting day, be mindful of the day after fasting
- It is advisable to plan a calm and easygoing day after fasting.
- A day after fasting, it is advisable to breastfeed more often than usual to help the milk production system resume its normal function.
The impact of fasting on your baby’s health
There is little information from studies about this issue, and even studies that have found minor differences in the mother’s milk after the fasting found no clinical significance.
It is estimated that fasting, for most babies, will not hinder nutritional necessities. However, each case needs to be examined on a case-by-case basis, so it is advisable to consult a medical professional before fasting.