Breastfeeding is not only beneficial for the baby but also for the mother. It is a natural process that provides many health benefits to both the mother and the baby. Apart from providing essential nutrients to the baby, breastfeeding also helps the mother in burning calories. In this article, we will explore how many calories does breastfeeding burn.
Breastfeeding is a natural process that involves the production of milk in the mother’s body. This process requires energy, which is obtained from the calories that the mother consumes. According to experts, breastfeeding burns approximately 300-500 calories per day. The number of calories burned depends on various factors, such as the age of the mother, the weight of the baby, the frequency and duration of breastfeeding, and the mother’s activity level.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that new mothers should consume an additional 450-500 calories per day while breastfeeding. This is because breastfeeding requires extra energy, and the mother’s body needs to produce milk for the baby. However, this does not mean that mothers should consume junk food or unhealthy snacks. Instead, they should focus on consuming healthy and nutritious foods that provide the necessary nutrients and energy to the body.
Breastfeeding can also help new mothers to lose weight. This is because breastfeeding requires the body to burn calories to produce milk. According to a study published in the journal Obstetrics and Gynecology, breastfeeding mothers lose more weight in the first six months after delivery compared to non-breastfeeding mothers. The study also found that breastfeeding mothers have a lower risk of developing obesity and type 2 diabetes later in life.
Apart from burning calories and helping with weight loss, breastfeeding provides many other health benefits to both the mother and the baby. Breast milk contains all the essential nutrients that the baby needs for growth and development. It also provides antibodies that help to protect the baby from infections and diseases. Breastfeeding also helps to strengthen the bond between the mother and the baby.
In conclusion, breastfeeding is not only beneficial for the baby but also for the mother. It helps to burn calories, which can aid in weight loss, and provides many health benefits to both the mother and the baby. New mothers should focus on consuming healthy and nutritious foods to provide the necessary nutrients and energy to the body. They should also consult with their healthcare provider if they have any concerns about breastfeeding or their health.
