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Breastfeeding 201: When it Hurts

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Last post, we discussed the basics of breastfeeding. This time, we are going to go a little deeper into the challenges with breastfeeding. Here are some conditions that could happen while breastfeeding: Sore Nipples If someone was munching on any part of your body for an extended period of time several times a day, it would be sore. That nipples are sensitive makes it even more uncomfortable. For the most part, the soreness will let up in about a week. If you are experiencing extreme pain, visit with a lactation consultant for help.  Letdown Failure/Hyperactive Letdown The Letdown reflex is what starts the pumping. Failure to do this is rare, but can be caused by stress. Sometimes you can be prescribed an oxytocin nasal spray, but you can also stimulate the reflex by practicing relaxation techniques. Conversely, Hyperactive Letdown is when the milk comes out too quickly, and could be coming from both breasts. Moms with this challenge can try expressing the milk to be saved for late...
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Breastfeeding 101: The Basics

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You have gone through pregnancy (or the adoption process) and are now entering what is called the 4th trimester. One of many choices that new parents make during this time revolve around breastfeeding. Should you breastfeed? Should you use formula? Can  you breastfeed? Can you afford formula? This post will outline the basics of breastfeeding, whereas the next two posts get into it a little deeper.   I should note that all of the choices that you make for your baby are up to you. As long as you are making that choice to benefit your child, you should not feel ashamed or guilty for it. There posts are here to inform, not judge.   Benefits of Breastfeeding for New Moms: - Oxytocin release - Sometimes called the "Love hormone," it can strengthen the bond between mother and child. It can also reduce stress and anxiety. Oxytocin helps the uterus return to pre-pregnancy size.  - Some women return to their pre-pregnancy weight while breastfeeding.  - Breastfe...
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Breastfeeding 301: Nutrition

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In the last two posts, we discussed the basics of breastfeeding as well as some of the challenges. This post, we are going to deep dive into the nutrition. We discussed the choice that parents need to make between breast milk and formula. Below is a chart that outlines the differences between breast milk., cow's milk, and formula. This is based on an average serving of 25 ounces and a baby boy that is 6 months of age: (Per 25 Fluid Ounces) Breastmilk %DV* Cow Milk (Whole Fat) %DV* Formula (Nestle Good Start) %DV* Energy (Calories)** 550 96.49% 475 83.33% 500 87.72% Protein (grams) 8 87.91% 24 263.74% 11 120.88% Fat (grams) 33.75 108.87% 24.75 79.84% 25.75 83.06% Carbs (grams) 53 88.33% 28.65 47.75% 56.25 93.75% Calcium (mg) 250 125.00% 850 425.00% 325 162.50% Sodium (mg) 125 104.17% 325 270.83% 125 104.17% Vitamin C (mg) 37.5 93.75% 0 0.00% 45 112.50% Vitamin B6 (mg) 0.075 750.00% 0.275 2750.00% 0.375 3750.00% Vitamin B12 (mcg) 0.5 125.00% 3.5 875.00% 1.75 437.50% Vitamin A (RAE - ...
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How to Begin Optimizing Your Health

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What is optimum health? What does it mean to be "well"? These are loaded questions and aren't easily answered. Health and Wellness aren't a destination, but a journey. It isn't as if you get to a point and you say, "oh, I'm healthy, I can stop now." Your health is constantly evolving and changing and that makes it hard to answer. Not only is your own body changing, but the science is changing as well. Years ago, low fat was the answer. Now, we know that some fat is good and is an important part of our diet. Who knows what we will learn in the future?  While health and wellness can be overwhelming, it's important not to dwell on the minutia. So, let's take a deep breath and learn some basic things that you can do to increase your health.   Take In Vital Nutrients One of the most important parts of nutrition is, nutrients! Yes, you could focus on making sure that you have exactly 78 grams of protein per day and 1000 mg of calcium while making s...
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