Some mommies are geysers of milk, while others of us have a less ample supply or flow. Chances are your body produces more than enough milk for baby, and following baby’s demands is the best way to ensure your supply meets his needs. If you’re worried about your milk supply, exercise might seem a dangerous prospect. Rest assured! Moderate exercise is not known to affect milk quantity or quality. While lowering your calories can affect your body’s ability to produce milk (aim for at least 1,800-2,000 calories per day while breastfeeding), exercise is a safe and effective way to begin dropping some of your pregnancy weight. Eating a well-rounded diet and setting aside 30-60 minutes each day to walk, pop in an exercise DVD, or take a fitness class will make for a fitter, healthier, calmer mother. Depriving yourself of calories may not only affect your breastmilk, it will likely cause fatigue, anxiety and even mood swings that make parenting an infant even more difficult. Be the best mommy you can be – follow a sensible diet and exercise moderately, and be patient as your body slowly returns to its regular non-pregnant size.
~ Dara Duff-Bergeron is a veteran fitness trainer and a specialist in women’s health and fitness. With a decade under her belt, Dara now shares her exceptional experience and down-to-earth philosophy through Fit Family , personal training and Belly Bootcamp , pre- and post-natal fitness. Dara is mommy of one with another on the way, and lives in Toronto with her own little fit family.
