does breastfeeding lead to overeating?

I have been nursing my son since day 1 and he is now 1year and 9 months. During this time, I've never had problems with milk supply until 2 months ago when I noticed that he feeds a lot more and for longer periods of time. Now I think my milk supply is short and I don't even notice the let down reflex happening anymore. Along with his increased feeding, I eat more as well. I've been having food cravings (and i know I'm not pregnant) even though i know I'm already full and my tummy is about to burst. Even in the middle of the night, especially after he feeds, I'd get up and ask my hubby to go get me something to eat. Is this normal? Has anyone experienced the same thing? If i keep this up, I think I'll be obese in a year! Something I noticed though, I haven't gained much weight ever since I started pigging out. Do any of you know ways on how I can tone down my appetite a bit?

[30something13]

I am now nursing for my 4th time and have nursed all the way till a little after 2 years of age, while pregnant and while nursing two at once.

It is very common to be hungry, not gain and actually loose weight while eating more. You do nto always notice the let down when they get that big, and yes that is why you are extra hungry cuz of babies age, They take more and you make more. I do not know how you can tone your appetie down except for wating balanced but you want ot make sure you are getting enough calories in and if you may notice that if you stop eating you will loose to much weight and need to eat. SO I would not worry about it to much. Water helps you feel full and helps milk supply so you can try to drink a glass when nursing.

It is awsome that you are still nursing and abby benifits so much the longer you nurse!

[jenstam]

I have a very large appetite and horrible cravings while nursing as well and I can't seem to stop it! I don't lose weight while nursing, either, but like you, even though I'm eating like a pig, I don't gain anything either. Maybe replace the unhealthy snacks with healthy snacks and I have found that a lot of times I am just thirsty and need water! If you don't like water you can flavor it with something. Just wanted you to know that I do understand and I have been frustrated with it as well!

[jenstam]

Oh, and I don't have a let down feeling anymore either, but I know my son is getting a lot of milk because I can hear it sloshing around in his belly after he nurses (:

[zazou]

Well I don't eat more than usual but sometimes have my moments where I just want to eat particular things (like cake) but I had that before the pregnancy.

Drinking does suppress the appetite a little if you're worried about gaining weight. But if you're eating the right foods, then not only you are benefiting, but your toddler as well and I wouldn't be too concerned about it. You're doing a great thing, keep it up :-)

I don't have let down too but I do notice when the milk comes it as she breathes more through her nose and drinks quickly.

[allmymarbles]

I have breastfed four children. My appetite increased when I breastfed, which makes sense, and ate whenever I was hungry. I did notice, though, that I carried an extra five pounds. I lost this right after weaning them.