Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a healthy choice that can aid maternal weight loss and lower blood glucose.

If you are able to breastfeed, it is a healthy choice for you and your baby. Breast milk provides your baby with natural immunity. There is a theory that the introduction of cow's milk before 6 months of age may increase the risk of a child developing type 1 diabetes. This is just a theory and has not been proven, however the Canadian Pediatric Association recommends not giving your child cow's milk until 9 to 12 months of age. Breast-feeding also facilitates maternal weight loss and lowers blood glucose. During this time, when you are getting little sleep, eating irregularly and hormones are fluctuating, you will find your blood glucose will also fluctuate.

Breast-feeding places extra nutritional demands on your body, even more than when you were pregnant. If you do not increase your food intake at this time you are at greater risk for hypoglycemia. In order to make sure you are eating well while breast-feeding, you should increase your caloric intake by about 500 calories per day. This can be done by drinking a glass of milk each time you breast-feed your baby. This provides you with the extra fluid that your body needs and with extra carbohydrates to prevent your blood glucose from going too low. Discussing your needs with a dietitian will provide you with alternative ideas if you find it difficult to drink milk.

Being aware of the symptoms of hypoglycemia and treating promptly with sugar or juice is important, especially now that you have a baby who depends upon you. Be aware of the subtle changes to the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia and have juice or candy with you at all times. To prevent hypoglycemia, check your blood glucose often and record the results. Testing and recording will help you and your diabetes team to determine your insulin needs. Make sure you are eating regular snacks.

By continuing to take care of yourself at this busy time, you will be better able to enjoy your new family. As your family grows older, you, as a mother, will find that new demands are placed on you. You may go through periods of time where your diabetes management is not a priority. If diabetes management takes a back seat, it's certainly worth the effort to get back on track.