NUTRITION is key to breastfeeding success. Along with the quantity produced, the quality of the milk will improve as well. For breastfeeding a singleton (one baby) you will need an increase of 500 calories above what you normally require non-pregnant. If you are breastfeeding multiples then you will require 500 calories per baby over your non-pregnant needs. Some experts are now recommending that for feeding twins, the addition of 1140 calories above what would normally be required would be of benefit.

The type of calories consumed is very important as well. You could eat 2 candy bars to fulfill the 500-calorie requirement, but it probably would do little to improve the quantity or quality of your milk. Your diet should mainly consist of an increase in lean protein such as poultry, fish, cottage cheese, hard cheeses and eggs to name a few. The carbohydrates should be a generous supply of fruits and vegetables, (choose those that are in season at this time of year, they will be less expensive.) Hydration is of utmost importance for breastfeeding moms. If your hydration is low, your milk will be too. I recommend 80 ounces or more of water, milk or other beverages, preferably low in sugar.

If you are having problems with your milk supply then you may want to try a few of these suggestions.

• Severely restrict if not eliminate the use of diet sodas during this time. The nutra sweet in the soda can cut your milk supply by as much as half.
• Limit caffeine in your diet. Caffeine is a diuretic which causes the loss of fluid; you’re trying to increase your fluid intake remember.
• Try the use of natural herbs.

Renting a pump from either the hospital or a medical supply house is one of the best ways to continue to increase your milk supply. Pumping is very beneficial when you have more than one baby, allowing for maximum management of your time and energy! You can pump for 15-20 minutes and produce from 3 to 6 ounces out of each breast (individuals will vary this amount), which is generally enough for one feeding if you have twins, or two feedings if you have a singleton. If you are returning to work pumping your milk is a must. You can generally pump enough for your caretaker to use throughout the day. You may even work close enough to home that you can either pump during your lunch hour or breastfeed your baby (ies). Pumping your breasts also allows for your husband, children or others to help with the feeding process, which is a burden lifted off of you.

Breastfeeding my twins has been somewhat of a challenge for me. Not being a great milk producer, I have personally taken the above herbs. My personal preference is for the More Milk. Milk production increased as well as the flow of milk. This has made breastfeeding much easier as well as enjoyable. I use 2 full droppers into 1 ounce of juice 3-4 times a day. This has worked better for me than the Fenugreek. Fenugreek did increase milk supply, but not as noticeable as the More Milk product. The Medela pump has been a lifesaver for me, allowing me to continue to provide enough milk for the babies, and along with the herbal supplement, pumping time has decreased and I have more time for activities with my other children or for myself.