Breastfeeding And Keto: What You Need To Know

The keto diet is a popular choice for those looking to lose weight and manage blood sugar. It involves eating a low-carb, high-fat diet to force the body into ketosis, a metabolic state where fat is burned for energy instead of carbohydrates. While this diet may be tempting for new mothers looking to lose weight, it is essential to consider the potential risks and how it may affect breast milk supply and quality.

There is limited research on the effects of the keto diet on nursing mothers and their babies. Some an Ancedotal reports suggest that keto may lead to a reduction in milk supply due to factors such as dehydration and lack of adequate calories or nutrients. Additionally, the high-fat content of keto may make it challenging to consume enough calories to produce sufficient milk. The diet's diuretic effect can also increase the risk of dehydration, further impacting milk supply.

Furthermore, nursing mothers on keto may be at risk of developing ketoacidosis, a serious condition characterised by high ketone levels and changes in blood gases that can cause the blood to become too acidic. While rare, ketoacidosis can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.

Overall, while there is no conclusive evidence that keto will negatively affect breast milk supply and quality, the potential risks should be carefully considered. It is recommended that nursing mothers prioritise a balanced diet to ensure they and their babies get all the necessary nutrients. Consulting a healthcare professional before starting any diet is always advisable, especially for nursing mothers concerned about their milk supply and their baby's health.

Keto diet and breastfeeding

The keto diet is a popular weight-loss strategy that involves a low-carb, high-fat intake, which puts the body into a metabolic state called ketosis, where it burns fat for energy instead of glucose. While this diet has helped many people lose weight, there are potential risks for breastfeeding mothers that should be considered. This article will explore the effects of the keto diet on nursing mothers and their babies, including its impact on milk supply and quality, as well as safety concerns and alternative diet options.

Milk Supply and Quality

Breastfeeding requires a sufficient intake of calories and fluids to maintain an adequate milk supply for the baby. The keto diet's high-fat and protein content can be very filling, making it challenging to consume enough calories to produce milk. Additionally, ketosis increases fluid needs, and dehydration can lead to a rapid decrease in milk supply. Some people report being able to maintain their milk supply while on keto, while others find it difficult.

Limited evidence suggests that breast milk produced by mothers on a keto diet may be higher in fat and calories, meaning the baby may not need to drink as much to get the required calories. However, more research is needed to understand the full impact of keto on breast milk production and quality.

Safety and Side Effects

There have been reports of a condition called ketoacidosis occurring in nursing women on keto diets. Ketoacidosis is a serious condition characterised by high ketone levels and changes in blood acidity, which can cause shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, abdominal pain, and chest pain. While rare, it is a risk worth considering, especially if there are pre-existing medical conditions.

Other possible side effects of the keto diet include "keto flu," fatigue, muscle loss, bad breath, smelly urine, and digestion issues.

Alternative Diets

If you are concerned about the potential risks of the keto diet while breastfeeding, there are alternative diets that may be safer and more sustainable. These include:

• The Mediterranean diet, which is rich in whole grains, healthy oils, fish, shellfish, fruits, and vegetables. This diet has been linked to lower rates of childhood asthma and other inflammatory diseases in children whose mothers consumed it while nursing.
• A low-carb diet that allows up to 130 grams of carbohydrates per day, providing similar benefits to keto but with a lower risk of ketoacidosis.
• The Paleo diet, which focuses on unprocessed foods while avoiding grains, added sugars, dairy, and legumes. This diet tends to be lower in carbs but is not as restrictive as keto.

While there is limited research on the effects of the keto diet on breastfeeding, it is important to prioritise the health and nourishment of your baby. The keto diet may impact milk supply and quality, and there are safety concerns to consider. Alternative diets, such as the Mediterranean, low-carb, or Paleo diets, may be better options to support a healthy milk supply while still promoting weight loss. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new diet, especially while breastfeeding.

Nutritional needs during breastfeeding

An additional 500 kcal for the first six months, and 400 kcal for the next six months, are required for a lactating mother. This can be met by eating, for example, an extra 6-8 slices of bread per day. Simply eating more of a usual balanced diet should allow you to meet the higher energy demand while you breastfeed.

The increase in protein requirements during lactation is minimal compared to that of energy. However, if your energy intake is low, protein will be used for energy production. The additional protein requirements during lactation can be met by consuming protein-rich foods (e.g. one egg or 25g of cheese or 175g of milk). If you do not have a high enough protein intake, then the proportion of casein in your milk may be reduced. Casein protein is an important component of your milk, as it helps to provide your baby with calcium and phosphate. It also forms a clot in the stomach that allows for more efficient nutrition.

Your intake of some nutrients (e.g. vitamins C, A, thiamine, riboflavin, B6, B12, iodine and selenium) is reflected in your breast milk composition. Newborn babies have very little of these nutrients, and so they rely on breast milk for an adequate supply. Good sources of iodine include seafood and iodised salt. On the other hand, nutrients in your breast milk such as zinc, iron, folic acid, vitamin D, calcium, and copper are not affected by what you eat. The levels of these nutrients in human milk are constant, despite variations in the mother's diet or body stores. Dietary and supplemental intake of these nutrients during lactation will benefit the mother more than the baby.

Calcium is essential during lactation because it is required for milk production. An intake of 1000mg of calcium per day is required during the first six months after delivery. 500ml of milk or milk products per day must be taken in addition to eating calcium-rich foods, such as green leafy vegetables and fish.

It is important to eat a healthy diet while breastfeeding as what you eat determines the energy, protein, nutrient and vitamin content of your breast milk.

Keto benefits and considerations for nursing mothers

The keto diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that causes the body to enter a metabolic state called ketosis, where it burns fat for energy instead of glucose. While this diet has become popular for its weight loss benefits, it is not without its risks, especially for nursing mothers.

Benefits

Weight loss: The keto diet can accelerate weight loss due to its low-carb and high-fat content. It can also help control appetite as the fats and proteins keep you feeling full for longer.

Considerations

• Nutritional deficiencies: The keto diet may compromise the intake of essential nutrients such as iron and calcium, which are crucial for both the mother and baby's health.
• Decreased milk supply: The high-fat, high-protein content of the keto diet can suppress appetite, making it difficult to consume enough calories to support milk production.
• Dehydration: Ketosis can increase the risk of dehydration as the body burns fat instead of carbs for energy. Nursing mothers need to be particularly mindful of their fluid intake to maintain adequate milk supply.
• Ketoacidosis: Nursing mothers may be at risk of developing ketoacidosis, a serious condition characterised by high ketone levels in the blood, which can lead to abdominal pain, vomiting, chest pain, and shortness of breath.
• Lack of research: There is limited scientific research on the effects of the keto diet on nursing mothers and their babies.
• Healthcare provider recommendation: Nursing mothers should consult their healthcare provider before starting the keto diet to understand the potential benefits and side effects.

Overall, while the keto diet may offer weight loss benefits, it is important to prioritise a balanced diet that meets the nutritional needs of both the mother and the baby.

Can keto and breastfeeding coexist?

The keto diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that causes your body to enter a metabolic state known as ketosis, where it burns fat for energy instead of glucose. While this diet has become popular for weight loss, it may not be the best option for breastfeeding mothers. Here's why:

Nutritional Needs During Breastfeeding

During breastfeeding, a mother's nutritional intake directly impacts the quality and quantity of her milk supply. A balanced diet is crucial to ensure the optimal health of both the mother and her newborn. Breastfeeding mothers should prioritise including the following nutrients in their diet:

• Choline: Found in eggs, liver, almonds, milk, and salmon, choline improves a child's cognitive function and has long-term neurocognitive benefits.
• Iron: Iron deficiency can lead to reduced milk production and impact the baby's iron intake. Include iron-rich foods like nuts, leafy greens, red meat, and fish in your diet.
• Protein: Adequate protein intake from sources like eggs, lean meat, lentils, fish, and nuts is necessary for milk production.
• Vitamin D: Maternal vitamin D intake meets the infant's requirements and supports immunity, blood sugar metabolism, and bone and brain health.
• Calcium: Calcium-rich foods such as yogurt, milk, cheese, and calcium-fortified juices are essential for strengthening bones and improving overall health.
• Vitamin A: Vitamin A, found in sweet potatoes, carrots, pumpkin, and broccoli, is crucial for the baby's cell specialization, immune function, vision, and bone growth.

Impact of Keto on Breastfeeding

The keto diet's high-fat, low-carb nature may interfere with the essential nutrient intake needed during breastfeeding. Here are some ways keto can impact breastfeeding:

• Compromised Nutrition: The keto diet may compromise the intake of vital nutrients such as iron and calcium, which are crucial for both the mother and the baby.
• Decreased Milk Supply: Breastfeeding mothers may experience a decrease in milk supply due to the low carbohydrate intake associated with the keto diet. The high-fat, protein-rich diet can make mothers feel fuller for longer, leading to reduced calorie intake, which is necessary for adequate milk production.
• Dehydration: Ketosis can increase the risk of dehydration as the body burns fat instead of carbs for energy. Nursing mothers need to be particularly mindful of their fluid intake to maintain milk supply.
• Ketoacidosis: Nursing mothers on a keto diet are at risk of developing ketoacidosis, a severe condition characterised by high ketone levels in the blood, which can lead to abdominal pain, vomiting, chest pain, and shortness of breath.

Benefits and Considerations for Nursing Mothers

While the keto diet may offer weight loss and appetite control benefits, it is essential to consider the potential drawbacks:

• Weight Loss: Keto's low-carb, high-fat content can accelerate weight loss, which may be appealing to new mothers.
• Appetite Control: The high-fat, protein-rich nature of the keto diet can help suppress appetite and make you feel fuller for longer.
• Healthcare Provider's Advice: It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before starting any diet, especially while breastfeeding, to understand the benefits and risks involved.
• Gradual Transition: If approved by your doctor, gradually transition into the keto diet to avoid shocking your system with abrupt changes.
• Nutrient-Dense Foods: Focus on consuming nutrient-dense foods like healthy fats, non-starchy vegetables, and various protein sources while on keto.
• Hydration: Keto can be dehydrating, so drinking enough water is crucial, especially during breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding is demanding on a mother's body, requiring additional calories to produce sufficient milk. The keto diet's emphasis on high-fat foods may not provide enough calories, potentially leading to a decrease in milk supply. Additionally, the filling nature of keto meals might make it challenging to reach the required caloric intake. Here are some key considerations:

• Caloric Intake: Breastfeeding mothers need 200 to 500 extra calories per day to meet the nutritional demands of their babies.
• Milk Supply: Diets that restrict calories can negatively impact milk supply. Giving your baby adequate nourishment should be the top priority.
• Metabolic Changes: Your body may conserve energy by reducing milk production and storing fat if it senses a lack of energy.
• Pediatrician's Recommendation: Most pediatricians recommend a balanced diet over keto while breastfeeding to ensure adequate nutrition for both mother and baby.
• Hydration: The keto diet can be dehydrating, so breastfeeding mothers must prioritise hydration to maintain milk supply.

In conclusion, while there is limited research on the effects of the keto diet during breastfeeding, the available evidence suggests that it may not be the best choice for nursing mothers. The keto diet's potential impact on milk supply, hydration levels, and the risk of ketoacidosis are important considerations. It is advisable to prioritise a balanced diet and adequate hydration to ensure the health and well-being of both mother and baby during this critical period.

Keto diet side effects

The keto diet, or ketogenic diet, is a popular diet for weight loss and blood sugar management. It involves eating a low-carb, high-fat diet to enter a metabolic state called ketosis, where the body burns fat instead of carbs for energy. While this diet can be effective for weight loss, it has several potential side effects, especially for breastfeeding mothers. Here are some key points to consider regarding the side effects of the keto diet:

Milk Supply and Quality

Breastfeeding requires a sufficient intake of calories and fluids to maintain an adequate milk supply. The keto diet may make it challenging to consume enough calories due to the filling nature of high-fat foods. Additionally, ketosis increases fluid needs, putting individuals at a higher risk of dehydration, which can further impact milk supply. Some breastfeeding mothers who tried the keto diet reported a decrease in milk supply, while others were able to maintain their supply by increasing their calorie and fluid intake.

Nutritional Deficits

The keto diet may compromise the intake of essential nutrients such as iron and calcium, which are crucial for the health of both the mother and the baby. Breast milk typically contains a balance of macronutrients, including carbohydrates, which are restricted on the keto diet.

Ketoacidosis

Nursing mothers on the keto diet are at an increased risk of developing ketoacidosis, a serious condition characterised by high ketone levels and changes in blood acidity. This condition can cause shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and chest pain. While ketoacidosis is rare, especially in non-diabetic individuals, it is a risk that breastfeeding mothers should be aware of and monitor closely with their healthcare provider.

Keto Flu and Other Side Effects

The keto diet may cause side effects such as "keto flu," fatigue, muscle loss, bad breath, smelly urine, and digestion issues. These side effects can impact overall well-being and may be particularly challenging for breastfeeding mothers who are already experiencing physical and physiological changes.

Overall Recommendation

The keto diet is not generally recommended for breastfeeding mothers due to the potential risks and challenges mentioned above. It is essential to prioritise a balanced diet that meets the nutritional needs of both the mother and the baby. Any dietary changes or restrictions should be discussed with a healthcare professional to ensure the safety and well-being of both the mother and the child.

Frequently asked questions