Poor diet and breastfeeding

I have been suffering from PPD and other stressors, my diet has been very poor, maybe only eating one meal a day and snacks and consuming a lot of mountain dew, mayb 3-4 a day.   Im wondering how that will affect baby, will she get the nutrients she need, or will it be lacking in the milk since im not eating right?

[sweetangel7]

The caffeine in the mountain dew could cause her to be fitfull/fussy/unable to sleep...Babies can't break caffeine down like we can so it builds up in their system very easily...

I think as long as you are eating enough calories though your supply will be fine...Of course the healthier you eat the better, but you don't need to be lectured right now...

Sorry to hear things are rough for you right now!  Hang in there!

[tiredbuthappy]

she will get the nutrients she needs, although YOUR health may be affected. She will take the nutrients from your body. It can also affect your supply. I read, for example, that women in countries suffering famine are capable of providing nourishment for the newborns through breastfeeding.

I find that if i skip only a meal my supply drops. I see even more significant drops if I don't drink enough water. I have to drink a lot, even at night.

I'm very sorry to hear you're having a rough time. I am very impressed that despite challenges, you continue to nurse. You should be proud of yourself- you must be a strong person. Try to take care of yourself, and if you haven't already, talk to your doctor.

[PamelaBee]

Yikes!  MT Dew is one of the highest caffienated drinks on the shelf.  That will definitely affect your babies demeanor if consumed on a regular basis, including fussiness, sleeplessness and may even shun her from your breast.  However, tiredbuthappy is right, baby will take whatever nutrients from you first...just like in pregnancy, which it's why it's so very important to eat right, and take prenatal vitamins during that time, and actually while nursing.  PPD is very common, please see your Dr to see if they can prescribe a safe med compatible with BFing.  I try to use this this logic, what I eat/drink, my baby eats/drinks...now, I do sneak the fast food, chocolate and diet soda in there on occassion, but for the most part, I eat lots of protein, chicken, beans, soups, vegs, fruit,etc...if you are suffering from PPD it is most curable with help of group support, meds or change in diet and adding exercise.  Best wishes to you!

[PamelaBee]

I didn't mean to come across so clinical in my response, I am sorry you are experiencing PPD...I had a mild case of it after my first pregnancy with my son.  It was only until I talked with professionals and other Moms to hear how very common it was/is.  I hope you have sunny days ahead : )