Many breastfeeding mothers who want to practice fasting, but feel confused and ask questions. Will fasting cause breast milk to decrease? Can it affect your baby's weight? Don't worry, Mother. C'mon, refer to the medical explanation.
Actually, breastfeeding mothers are not required to fast in Ramadan and can be compensated in the form of fidyah or fasting at other times. Some mothers try to keep fasting, but some are still not sure they will run it for fear of impacting breast milk and babies.
Body Adjustment When Mothers Breastfeeding Fasting
Breastfeeding mothers actually do not need to worry too much, because the body will immediately adjust the burning of calories with fasting habits. Thus, even though the intake of drinks and food decreases during fasting during Ramadan, it will generally not affect the amount of milk production.
Indeed, the nutrition obtained by breastfeeding mothers when fasting will be reduced, so that micro nutrients namely vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and zinc are also reduced. However, it will not change the composition of macro nutrients (protein, carbohydrates, and fats) in breast milk, so it does not interfere with the growth of the baby.
If the milk production from food and drinks is consumed less, the body will take fat reserves from the body of the Mother. In addition, fasting during breastfeeding generally also will not endanger the Mother. According to research, the chemical balance in the body and bodily functions between mothers who breastfeed and those who are not, are generally the same.
Changes in the composition of breast milk is caused more by what the mother consumes and needs of the baby. The composition of breast milk will change if you consume only a little food. But, this change in the composition of breast milk is normal, Bun. Meanwhile, the volume of milk will remain the same.
Pay attention to the condition of the baby and mother
Mother's decision to breastfeed or not, can be considered based on the age of the baby. Infants who are less than 6 months old who only consume breast milk, of course have a different breastfeeding pattern than babies 1 year who have received complementary milk.
Mother can keep breastfeeding while fasting, but by watching and making sure your little one is not short of fluids. Among others, by looking at the frequency of urination and its magnitude. After more than a week of age, babies who suckle, urinate at least 6 times a day. Also pay attention if the baby often wants to suckle but after that looks unsatisfied and wants to suckle quickly again. Also if the weight does not increase, or even go down.
To facilitate the process of breastfeeding while fasting, there are tips that you can follow:
- Most shopping needs fasting before Ramadan, so you can rest more. In addition, multiply breaks in between activities.
- Limit activities, especially strenuous activities. It is better to avoid doing activities in the sun.
- If necessary, Mother can record food and drink menus, both for dawn and breaking the fast to ensure adequate nutrition. Make sure you drink plenty of water when breaking and dawn.
- Don't miss vitamin supplements for nursing mothers. Doctors can recommend vitamin supplements that can be taken at dawn.
- Go to a doctor if you experience a weight loss of more than 1 kg per week.
Although you want to fast the full, but consider the condition of your body. It is better not to force to continue fasting, if you feel unwell or physically unable.
Beware of Dehydration
Generally fasting will not cause Mother to lack of fluids (dehydration) and decrease the volume of breast milk. This can only happen if there is severe dehydration due to not consuming enough fluids when breaking and dawn. It is important to be aware of the condition of dehydration in nursing mothers, which can be recognized by symptoms such as:
- Eyes, mouth and lips feel dry
- Feel very thirsty
- Dark urine
- Headache
- Tired and weak.
If symptoms of dehydration occur in nursing mothers, you should cancel fasting immediately. Take salt and sugar as a substitute for body fluids. See a doctor immediately, if it does not improve after a break of about 30 minutes.
Not all women are able to breastfeed during fasting. Do not force yourself to fast, if you feel unable. If you are in doubt whether it is healthy enough to fast while breastfeeding, you should consult a doctor.
Comments
Post a Comment