What is power pumping?

Power pumping is a broad term used to refer to a period of rapid breast pumping that can help nursing moms regulate or increase breast milk supply. The purpose of power pumping is to replicate “cluster feedings,” which is when a newborn breastfeeds multiple times in rapid succession to build up breast milk supply in anticipation of a growth spurt. By repeatedly pumping in imitation of a cluster feeding session, moms can signal their bodies that there is an increased demand for breast milk. Ideally, new moms respond instinctively and build up breast milk supply to meet demand after a few of these power-pumping sessions. 

How does power pumping impact breast milk supply?

Power pumping is not meant to replace a breast pumping routine. Instead, this process can be introduced on top of a breastfeeding or breast pumping routine when a mom needs to increase breast milk supply. When a mom “power pumps,” she pumps repeatedly using a double electric breast pump for sets of ten or 20 minutes over an hour. This kind of rapid pumping will likely not produce as much milk as an ordinary pumping session or be as effective in increasing supply as cluster feedings. However, it can be a helpful step for moms interested in building up breast milk supply little by little. Making some dietary changes may be another option to help moms who want to produce more breast milk.

Who should try power pumping?

Power pumping may not be right for everyone! Moms should be sure they have low breast milk supply before trying to use their breast pump for power pumping. It is possible that a baby has an unstable latch or other breastfeeding issues that may make a mom think she has low breast milk supply. Be sure to talk with your doctor and verify that you have low breast milk supply before trying power pumping. Power pumping should always come second to a newborn’s unique feeding cues, which are the best way for moms’ bodies to produce enough breast milk to meet a little one’s needs.

Breastfeeding is not always easy, and we know it can be easy for moms to worry about if they are doing everything right as they provide nutrition to their baby. Believe us–you’re doing great, mama! If you have any concerns about your breast milk supply or want to consider power pumping, be sure to talk with your doctor. Pumps For Mom is proud to support nursing moms throughout their breastfeeding journey by providing high-quality breast pumps through insurance. With broad insurance coverage and breast pumps from the top brands, moms can get the tools they need to pump with confidence. Qualify for your breast pump through insurance today!

Fed is best.

As with most aspects of parenting, everyone has an opinion about the best way to feed a baby. Where one parent says breastfeeding is the only way to go, another may say that formula provides more nutrients for babies and more freedom for moms. Medical experts and research have clearly defined the benefits that breastfeeding can provide for moms and babies, but it is important to remember that a fed baby is best, no matter what they eat. Babies are nothing if not resilient, and they can become healthy toddlers with formula or breast milk! 

Breastfeeding takes practice.

Although breastfeeding is an instinctive process, that does not mean it comes naturally to every mom or baby. A new mama may be doing absolutely everything recommended by a doctor or lactation consultant, but her baby may not be able to latch consistently. On the other hand, a baby might have an excellent latch, but mom may be struggling with breast milk supply. Breastfeeding requires collaboration between moms and babies, with a lot of things going right, so it makes sense that new mamas take some time to practice and find their breastfeeding rhythm.

Every mom and baby is different.

No matter how a mom is feeding her baby, there must be an element of adaptation to meet the unique needs of each little one. What worked for one mom will likely not work for another, and moms may even need to change their feeding strategy for each child they have. From various breastfeeding positions to the breast pump that works best, moms need to be ready to adapt to conditions that are different from other moms’ experiences. As helpful as advice from other parents can be, every mom must be able to hear these opinions from others and recognize that it may not be right for her and her little one.

Feeding a baby can be expensive.

Everything from diapers to bottles adds up over time, so many parents are looking for opportunities to save a few dollars whenever possible. Breastfeeding can be a natural money-saver because moms can provide breast milk for every feeding without spending any money. While building up a supply of formula would be costly and take up a significant amount of space, storing expressed breast milk can be simple, safe, and cost-efficient.

Don’t be afraid to try something new.

For parents who have already decided how they want to feed their little one when he or she arrives, remember that nothing is permanent when it comes to newborns! Moms who have decided to breastfeed may have a few positions or let-down strategies that work for a little while and then are suddenly less effective. The key is to be flexible and always willing to try something new! Moms and babies have to work together to breastfeed, so if a certain feeding strategy isn’t working, don’t be afraid to switch things up or lean on a breast pump for some added flexibility.

There are lots of strong opinions about how to raise a baby “the right way.” At Pumps For Mom, we recognize that every family is unique, and moms need the freedom to find what works best for them! For moms who are ready to order their breast pump through insurance, the Pumps For Mom maternity product specialists have your back. We can verify your insurance coverage, help you find the best breast pump for you, and keep you updated through every step of the process. Get ready to feed your baby, and qualify for your breast pump through insurance today!

Do: Order a breast pump through insurance.

Whether you are still on the fence about breastfeeding or you are ready to perfect your baby’s latch as soon as they are born, a breast pump through insurance can set you up for success. Moms can qualify for a free breast pump through insurance at any point during their pregnancy, although insurance providers generally require a prescription to fully cover the device. Because moms usually get a breast pump through insurance with no out-of-pocket costs, new mamas can enjoy the increased flexibility a breast pump offers as soon as she is ready to breastfeed and without breaking the bank.

Don’t: Be afraid to try something new.

Like most of parenting, breastfeeding is all about trial and error! What worked for your friend, your sister, or even your first baby may not work for you and your new little one. So don’t hesitate to try something different to meet the unique needs of your baby. From new breastfeeding positions to adjusting the suction settings on your breast pump, there are many factors that can change your breastfeeding journey for the better. If you are struggling to find your breastfeeding groove, don’t be afraid to switch things up!

Do: Embrace cluster feedings.

Newborns can be unpredictable, especially when it comes to feedings. And for sleep-deprived parents, it can seem like these feedings are happening almost constantly. This is for a good reason! Throughout a newborn’s first year of life, several important growth spurts occur and require a lot of energy. Babies instinctively prepare for these periods of growth by feeding more often so that they can signal moms’ bodies to increase production of breast milk to meet what will soon be an increased demand. We know it can feel exhausting when a little one starts cluster feedings, but they are doing their part to make sure mom is prepared for the needs of a growing baby.

Don’t: Breastfeed through the pain.

Breastfeeding may not be the most comfortable aspect of new motherhood, but it should not be painful! Many new moms suffer through uncomfortable breastfeeding simply because they believe it is a process that hurts, but this is not true. If you are experiencing pain during breastfeeding, change your position, talk with your doctor, or give breast pumping a try, but don’t suffer in silence. There are numerous reasons you may be experiencing pain while breastfeeding that can be addressed with time and help from experts.

Do: Give breast milk storage a try.

If you’re a mama who is exclusively breast pumping or even using a breast pump every once in a while, building up a supply of expressed breast milk is a lifesaver in the future. Whether you simply want to give your partner some feeding responsibilities or you have a surprise trip away from your breastfeeding baby, breast milk storage takes some of the pressure off moms to constantly supply fresh breast milk for every feeding. Expressed breast milk can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or in the freezer for six months or more. Even if you don’t end up using all of the breast milk you store, you can enjoy some peace of mind knowing it is there if you need it! 

Don’t: Get upset with yourself.

While breastfeeding is a natural process, it can take some time for moms and babies to figure out how to work together during a feeding. Even if it is hard at the start, your body is doing an amazing thing by providing the best possible nutrition for your little one. So if you need to try new positions or your little one is struggling to latch, give yourself a break! Switch up your breastfeeding routine by using your breast pump or using stored breast milk, and don’t get upset with yourself. Rely on those around you for support and take your time as you find what works for you and your baby.

We know successful and easy breastfeeding doesn’t happen overnight. When things get hard, work with Pumps For Mom! Our range of breast pumps through insurance and maternity compression garments meet the needs of every mom and growing baby, and our team of maternity product specialists is ready to walk moms through every step of the process of getting a breast pump through insurance. Breastfeed like a pro with an insurance breast pump from Pumps For Mom. Qualify for yours today!

Basic breast milk storage tips

Before we dive into the specifics of breast milk storage, let’s review the basics. After breast milk is expressed, it must be stored in a sterile and airtight container, such as a breast milk storage bag. Additionally, labeling the expressed breast milk with the date it was pumped is essential to breast milk safety. Whether stored in the fridge or freezer, breast milk only remains safe for consumption within a certain period of time. And as the days of breastfeeding run together, a clear label makes it easier to know when breast milk was expressed and if it is safe for a little one to consume. 

How should I store breast milk in the refrigerator?

When stored in a fridge at 40° F, expressed breast milk is safe to use for up to four days, and placing expressed breast milk in the refrigerator in order of oldest to newest simplifies the feeding process. Organizing breast milk in this way helps you make the most of your liquid gold, and you can clearly see if any breast milk has been in the fridge for longer than four days. If you store breast milk in the fridge for four days and then realize you won’t use it in time, you cannot then store it in the freezer, as it’s possible bacteria has already begun to grow. Better safe than sorry!

How should I store breast milk in the freezer?

Parents who are saving breast milk for the long-haul can use a freezer to store breast milk for up to 12 months. It is best to use frozen breast milk within about six months, but it is acceptable to thaw and use breast milk that has been frozen within 12 months. If you think you might not use the breast milk within four days of pumping, your breast milk will be safest if you can freeze it as soon as possible after a breast pumping session. And double-check to make sure your freezer stays at 0° F or below!

Can I use breast milk that has been at room temperature?

Freshly expressed breast milk can sit out at room temperature, meaning 77° F or cooler, for up to four hours and still be safe to use. For families living in warmer climates where room temperature can climb above 77°, freshly pumped breast milk should be refrigerated or frozen within a few hours. If breast milk sits out for longer than four hours, it’s best to dispose of it, just to be safe. There’s always more where that breast milk came from!

How do I thaw breast milk safely?

As convenient as it is to freeze breast milk and use it for up to a year, parents must safely thaw frozen breast milk before it is fed to a baby. Frozen breast milk should be stored like refrigerated breast milk, in order of oldest to newest, and there are several safe ways to thaw it. Frozen breast milk can be thawed in a refrigerator overnight, in a container of warm or lukewarm water, or by running it under lukewarm water for a few minutes. Most importantly, it is not safe to thaw or heat breast milk in the microwave because this process can destroy the important nutrients in breast milk and form hot spots that can burn a baby’s mouth. After breast milk thaws in the fridge, you should use it within 24 hours, and once frozen breast milk has come to room temperature or been warmed, it should be used within two hours.

Can I reuse breast milk storage bags?

Unfortunately, most breast milk storage bags are not reusable. These products come pre-sterilized, so when they are used once, they cannot be completely sterile again. Reusing a single-use breast pump storage bag increases the risk of breast milk developing bacteria, which then becomes unsafe for babies. Recently, some breast milk storage bags have been made with materials like silicone that make it possible to reuse. However, these products must be clearly labeled as reusable, and parents should carefully follow the instructions to use them safely.

How do I store breast milk safely while traveling?

An insulated cooler bag and ice packs are a mom’s best friend for traveling safely with breast milk. After expressing and sealing breast milk, moms can then store it in a cooler with ice packs for up to 24 hours, where it then should be refrigerated or frozen as soon as possible. TSA will even let moms travel with more than 3.4 fluid ounces of breast milk in a carry-on bag, so they can keep their breast milk safe on flights. If you are going to be away from your little one for a while, you can use temperature-controlled shipping options to get your breast milk home. Alternatively, if you have enough breast milk in storage, you can pump and discard your breast milk to keep up your supply until you get back to your little one.

Breastfeeding and pumping is a challenge, and moms shouldn’t watch their hard work go to waste because of storage mistakes that make breast milk unsafe. When parents learn the tips and tricks to breast milk storage, it can be easy to find a routine. Give yourself time to find what works for you, and you’ll be a breast milk storage pro before you know it!

Pumps For Mom is proud to support new and expectant moms as they begin their breastfeeding journey. Our Maternity Products Specialists can help every mom find the best breast pump through insurance that fits her lifestyle and her needs. Qualify through our form and get your insurance breast pump from Pumps For Mom today!

1.Thinking pain is normal

Breastfeeding may not be comfortable all the time, but it should not be painful, especially as moms learn what works for them. Ongoing nipple pain or continual soreness due to breast engorgement or a poor latch may be a sign that something is going wrong during the breastfeeding process. For example, breast engorgement may indicate that you’re not feeding or pumping enough, while a poor latch may mean your baby isn’t getting all the breast milk they need. Talking with your doctor to address these possible causes of pain can help you breastfeed more comfortably and make sure your little one is getting all the breastfeeding benefits. 

2. Feeding on a strict schedule

As a new mom, it can feel like nothing is in your control when your little one sleeps, eats, cries, and poops whenever they want to. So it’s understandable that new parents may want to introduce a feeding schedule to help establish a routine. However, a strict feeding schedule can cause its own set of problems. For the most part, newborns need to set the rules of feedings because their levels of hunger may be different throughout the day and change as they grow. For example, your little one will initiate cluster feedings when they are getting ready for a growth spurt to make sure you produce enough milk to help them grow. Following the feeding cues of your little one helps ensure your milk supply can meet the demand of your baby so they can meet growth and weight goals. 

3. Questioning your instincts

Every new mom knows that there is no shortage of breastfeeding advice. However, while more information on the breastfeeding process can be beneficial, it may make moms question their breastfeeding instincts. As breastfeeding is a natural process, your instincts are probably right when it comes to breast milk supply, breastfeeding position, latch, and telling when your baby is full. However, constantly questioning if you are breastfeeding the “right” way and going against your instincts can often push you into making more breastfeeding mistakes. If your instincts are telling you your little one is full, he or she is probably full. If you feel like you are breastfeeding the best way for you and your baby, you’re probably right, even if a relative or neighbor is telling you something different. When in doubt, get in touch with your doctor or a lactation consultant, and remember to trust your instincts when wondering if something is going right or wrong with your little one.

4. Introducing formula to deal with low breast milk supply

It can be difficult to know if your breast milk supply is normal, and many moms worry they aren’t producing enough milk to keep their little one full. In reality, most moms have an adequate breast milk supply and create plenty of breast milk for their baby. Moms who are experiencing low supply can try some natural breast milk enhancers, also known as galactagogues. But if you’re concerned about supply and introduce formula too early, you can actually end up decreasing your breast milk supply. When in doubt, don’t introduce anything new when you’re breastfeeding, including formula, before talking with your doctor or a lactation consultant.

5. Skipping pumping sessions

We know how tiring a newborn can be, but consistently breast pumping either during breastfeeding sessions or on a regular schedule can do wonders for establishing a healthy breast milk supply. Especially if you are adjusting to time away from your little one, pumping when you would normally breastfeed is essential to producing enough breast milk to help your baby grow. Skipping pumping sessions can lead to engorgement, discomfort, and a reduced breast milk supply, so stick to your pumping schedule to feel your best and pump like a pro.

6. Ignoring your needs

Becoming a mom can be a magical thing, but you are still your own person, even as you care for your newborn day and night. It can be easy to lose track of the last time you’ve slept for more than a couple of hours at once or taken a shower. Although it can feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day, taking a few moments to tend to your needs will improve your breastfeeding experience and make you a better mom in the long run. Additionally, breastfeeding moms must prioritize eating a balanced diet and drinking plenty of water so that the body has the fuel it needs to make the breast milk that helps babies grow. To take care of your little one, you have to find time to take care of yourself.

7. Allowing someone else to define breastfeeding success

As mom-shaming becomes an increasingly common occurrence online and in-person, Pumps For Mom is here to remind moms that the only person who can define success for you as a mom and for your little one is you. Especially when it comes to breastfeeding, many moms face criticism and advice coming from all directions. But the way your mom, cousin, sister, or neighbor breastfed their baby does not have to impact your own breastfeeding journey. You get to decide what successful breastfeeding looks like, whether it’s six months of exclusive breastfeeding then transitioning to formula, breastfeeding for two years straight, or exclusively using a breast pump for a year. You know what’s best for you, mama!

Pumps For Mom is passionate about making new and expectant moms’ lives easier by providing a simple process to get a breast pump through insurance. With a wide range of insurance breast pumps and maternity compression garments covered by insurance, Pumps For Mom helps moms get what they need without the stress. Our experts will walk you through every step of the process, from getting your breast pump prescription from your doctor to making sure your pump gets delivered safely to your door. Qualify for your breast pump through insurance with Pumps For Mom today!

Facts About Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers and is a leading cause of death from cancer among women in the United States. 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will develop breast cancer at some point in their life, and in 2020, and it is estimated that approximately 30% of all new cancer diagnoses for women will be breast cancer. Because of the seriousness and prevalence of breast cancer, organizations and scientists all over the world are continuing to search for relevant risk factors or preventative actions that could help protect women from this disease. There are many different kinds of breast cancer associated with various risk factors, although some research suggests that certain types of breast cancer may be related to the amount of estrogen in women’s bodies. 

Breastfeeding and Breast Cancer Prevention

The changes that occur in a woman’s body during pregnancy and breastfeeding, notably a reduced amount of estrogen, may make cells less likely to become cancerous. Scientists have found that being pregnant has certain protective benefits, but breastfeeding lowers the risk of pre- and post-menopausal breast cancer more significantly than pregnancy alone. To take full advantage of the protective benefits of breastfeeding, the American Institute for Cancer Research and the World Health Organization states that mothers should breastfeed exclusively for at least six months. However, mothers can further reduce their breast cancer risk if they continue breastfeeding past six months. Specifically, breastfeeding continuously for 12 months or longer is associated with a 28% lower risk of breast cancer, compared to only a 14% lower risk for women who breastfeed for a shorter amount of time.

Tips for Exclusive Breastfeeding

Pumps For Mom knows how challenging it can be to stick to exclusive breastfeeding for six months, much less continuing to breastfeed for a full year or more after giving birth. Because breastfeeding can be tiring, our team is passionate about making it as easy as possible to breastfeed. Using a breast pump is one of the easiest ways moms can enjoy more flexibility and comfort as they continue on their breastfeeding journey. From helping establish a reliable breast milk supply to making it possible for non-breastfeeding parents to share feeding responsibilities, breast pumps make it easier for moms to continue breastfeeding for as long as possible. 

Breast cancer is an unfortunate reality for millions of families across the globe. But with progressing research and continued awareness, we are getting closer to finding a cure for breast cancer. Our team is proud to support efforts like breastfeeding that can help moms reduce their risk of breast cancer. 

Pumps For Mom is here to do everything we can to make breastfeeding moms’ lives easier. And with our wide range of breast pumps through insurance, moms can get their high-quality breast pump without breaking the bank. Our experts streamline the process, and our simple qualification form makes it possible for moms to see exactly which insurance breast pumps are included with their coverage. Take advantage of the benefits of breastfeeding with an insurance breast pump from Pumps For Mom.

How Long Should I Be Breastfeeding Exclusively?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) actually has some pretty clear recommendations when it comes to this question. When possible, moms are encouraged to provide breast milk exclusively for the first six months of life, whether through breastfeeding or expressing milk using a breast pump.  Further, mothers should continue giving breast milk with complementary foods for another year or longer. Throughout the first six months of a baby’s life, breast milk plays an essential role in developing the immune system and reduces the likelihood a baby suffers from a severe medical condition like a respiratory or gastrointestinal infection. Additionally, breastfeeding a newborn encourages normative growth during this critical development period.

Breastfeeding Beyond 6 Months

After feeding your little one only breast milk for the first six months of life, breastfeeding will look a little different. Adding solid foods into the mix makes life more complicated for new moms, and it may feel like a challenge to continue breastfeeding as you struggle to find solid foods your little one will eat. However, it’s important for moms to remember that the longer they continue to breastfeed, the more long-term benefits their baby will receive. Breastfeeding has been associated with a reduced incidence of a range of medical conditions, including clinical asthma, type 1 diabetes, and celiac disease. A few extra months of breastfeeding can continue to build up this valuable protection that will stay with babies as they grow. A steady supply of breast milk also ensures your little one is getting all the nutrients they need, especially if they are a picky eater when it comes to solid foods.

How Long Should I Breastfeed?

There is no clear rule that determines how long moms should breastfeed. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the continuation of breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods until the child is two years of age or longer. The AAP and WHO may recommend these timelines, but they are just that – a recommendation. If your little one is growing well with breast milk and you can continue providing it, there is no harm in continuing to breastfeed past your baby’s first or second birthday. On the other hand, if you reach the six-month mark of exclusive breastfeeding and are struggling to keep up with your little one’s demand, you can introduce solids and start weaning him or her off breast milk.

The bottom line is that you decide how long you should breastfeed your baby. You can consider the recommendations of health organizations and your family members, but breastfeeding is different for everyone. If you have questions, talk to your pediatrician and trust your gut! You know what’s best for you and your baby.

Pumps For Mom is passionate about making moms’ lives easier. With our variety of insurance covered breast pumps and maternity compression garments, Pumps For Mom makes sure new and expectant moms get the tools they need to start their breastfeeding journey off right. Our experts are ready to walk you through every step of the process so you can get your breast pump through insurance without the hassle. Explore insurance breast pumps covered by your insurance using our simple qualification form, and let Pumps For Mom take care of the rest.

Benefits of Medela

Medela is one of the top breast pump brands. These breast pumps provide proprietary technology that makes mom’s life easier. An added bonus? Depending on your unique coverage, you may qualify for a Medela breast pump for free through insurance. We’ve done the research to find out exactly what makes Medela breast pumps so popular.

• Original 2-Phase Expression Technology: Medela developed this patented and research-based technology that imitates the way an infant naturally feeds. It helps moms maintain optimal milk supply. In the Stimulation Phase, Medela’s breast pumps mimic how a baby begins a feeding with fast and light sucking to stimulate letdown. This phase is followed by the Expression Phase, where the pump uses deeper, slower suction to express more milk quickly.
• Flexibility: Medela offers breast pumps that allow comfort and flexibility for every lifestyle. They come with optional battery power, different carrying options, or a range of prices for every budget.
• Double Electric Pump Options: Double electric breast pumps enable moms to express milk from both breasts simultaneously with an electronic pump. Medela creates several double electric breast pumps so that moms can pump with efficiency.
• Trusted Performance: Medela has been the #1 recommended breast pump brand for over 20 years. Although warranties vary from pump to pump, Medela commits to working with nursing moms to ensure their pumps are helping moms breastfeed with ease. 

What Are My Choices for Medela Breast Pumps?

Pumps For Mom offers new moms multiple choices so you can find the best breast pump that fits your lifestyle. When you work with us, you’ll find some of the most popular Medela breast pumps that can work with your insurance. 

• Advanced Personal Double Breast Pump Starter Set: Insurance frequently covers this compact pump that comes in a soft, easy-to-carry case. Additionally, this product comes with Medela breast shields, breast milk bottles, tubing, and more to keep your pump running at its best. 
• Medela Pump in Style® Advanced: One of the most popular pump options from Medela, the Pump in Style® Advanced, comes in four styles to fit the needs of every nursing mom. The pump can operate from a power adapter plugged into the wall or from a battery pack for moms on-the-go. Additionally, breastmilk bottles, breast shields, and portable coolers are included with each pump. Work with us to see how you can get the Medela Pump in Style® Advanced through insurance.
• Medela Freestyle®: With a lightweight pump, rechargeable battery, and options to personalize and control each pump session, moms can pump freely with the Medela Freestyle®. Each pump comes with a backlit display and timer so you can keep track of your pumping time. Medela Freestyle® pumps also come with a tote bag to keep you organized no matter where you pump.

Can I get a Medela Breast Pump Covered by Insurance?

Get a Medela breast pump through your health insurance with Pumps For Mom. After the passage of the Affordable Care Act, most insurance plans must cover the cost of a breast pump. Moms shouldn’t have to shoulder the financial burden of breastfeeding. Work with us to take advantage of breastfeeding benefits and get a Medela breast pump through insurance. 

At Pumps For Mom, get certain breast pumps completely free with insurance. Upgrade pumps may have a small fee out-of-pocket. Our simple qualification form makes it easy to see which breast pumps and upgrades are covered by your insurance. Moms have enough on their to-do lists. Let Pumps For Mom check off your breast pump through insurance.

Salmon

Salmon and other fatty fish are packed with omega-3 fatty acids like DHA. They promote heart health for breastfeeding moms and encourages brain and nervous system development for growing infants. While most fish contain these nutritious fatty acids, breastfeeding moms need to steer clear of swordfish, mackerel and other fish with high levels of mercury. The Centers for Disease Control warns that high concentrations of mercury can limit proper cognitive development. Be sure to stick to fatty fish with omega-3s and look out for the baby’s growing brain.

Leafy Green Veggies

Spinach, kale, swiss chard, and other leafy green vegetables are jam-packed with vitamins and minerals that are good for your breast milk. While leafy greens may cause your breast milk to develop a green tint,  they are also full of vitamin A, calcium, vitamin K, iron, vitamin C, and antioxidants. These vegetables give your breast milk a healthy boost. 

Brown Rice

Carbohydrates are an essential component to a breastfeeding diet. While you may be anxious to work off your pregnancy weight right after you give birth, remember you are still eating for two while you breastfeed. The complex carbohydrates found in brown rice and other whole-grain foods are full of B vitamins, which help turn carbs into energy. These foods are also full of fiber, which helps you feel full longer and aids in digestion. Don’t be scared of complex carbs–you’ll need the energy to get through ten feedings a day!

Oranges

Oranges and other citrus fruits are great for nursing moms who need a burst of energy. The vitamin C found in these tasty fruits is helps us absorb iron and keep energy levels up. Always have your hands full? Orange juice is also packed with vitamin C and is often fortified with calcium, so you can get your vitamin C boost on the go!

Lean Beef

Breastfeeding moms have increased needs for protein and iron–both of which can be met by eating lean beef. Protein plays a significant role in building and repairing muscle tissue. Iron is necessary for keeping energy levels up. Lean beef can be used in countless recipes as a delicious source of protein. It’s also an excellent way to fit other nutrients like zinc, iron, and B vitamins into an everyday diet. When your diet is balanced with a combination of lean protein, fruits, and veggies, not only is your body getting the healthy nutrients it needs to support you when you’re breastfeeding, but your little one also receives balanced and nutritious breast milk. 

Beans and Lentils

Beans and lentils are an amazing source of protein for breastfeeding moms who stick to a vegan or vegetarian diet. These low-cost legumes are packed with folate, which is necessary for infant brain development. They are also packed with fiber and protein to keep mom full for longer. Add beans and lentils to soups, stews, and dips or enjoy them on their own for an easy source of nutrients for busy new moms.

Low-Fat Dairy Products

Calcium is an essential nutrient for everyone, but this mineral becomes especially crucial for new moms, as women lose around 3 to 5 percent of their bone mass when breastfeeding. Calcium can be found in a variety of low-fat dairy products including milk, yogurt, cheese. Consuming about 1,000 milligrams of calcium per day help protect your bones as you breastfeed and give your little one a head-start on developing strong bones. 

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a filling and nutritious vegetable that should be incorporated into every new mom’s breastfeeding diet. These versatile and tasty vegetables are full of vitamin A, potassium, and various other nutrients. Vitamin A plays a role in infant growth and is important for the development of good vision and a working immune system. Just one sweet potato provides the daily recommendation for vitamin A, so enjoy this colorful veggie with the knowledge that you’re looking out for your little one.

Avocados

Avocados are a health food craze–and for good reason. These savory fruits are a wonderful source of healthy fats and can help moms feel full while providing tons of important vitamins and minerals like folate, potassium, and vitamins B, K, C, and E. Add avocado to your breakfast toast or atop a quick lunch salad for an extra boost for both you and your baby. 

Other Tips: Go Organic and Drink Water

New moms should also lookout for foods that may be contaminated with pesticides, insecticides, and other chemicals. These substances can pass to your little one through your breast milk. Buy organic fruits, vegetables, and meat products whenever possible. You want to be sure that unwanted chemicals don’t make their way into your baby’s body. In addition to shopping for organic produce, moms should also drink enough water throughout the day. Your body is working hard to make sure your baby is fed! Try to drink a glass of water at each feeding and throughout the day to prevent dehydration–your little one needs you at your best!

Breastfeeding can be exhausting–as if pregnancy, labor, and delivery weren’t enough. But you can do this! Include these best foods for breastfeeding moms in your diet so you have the energy you need for nighttime feedings, pumping, and everything in between. 

If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed with breastfeeding, you may benefit from a breast pump! And did you know that you can get a breast pump at little to no cost through your health insurance? Pumps For Mom is here to help you through the process of getting a breast pump through insurance. Fill out our easy-to-use form to find out what breast pumps you qualify for immediately!

Your Breast Milk is More than Great Nutrition

Mom’s liquid gold is more than just a yummy and nutritious staple to help your baby grow. It is completely natural and designed for infant digestion. It is easy on your newborn’s sensitive stomach and reduces instances of diarrhea. This wonderful, all-natural substance contains a balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and vitamins that meet the unique nutritional needs of growing babies. Breast milk also has bioactive components specifically designed to help your little one fight bacteria, viruses, and infections. Additionally, breastfed babies may grow into children with fewer instances of allergies, asthma, childhood cancers, diabetes, respiratory illnesses, and more. 

The Milk Will Change

If your breast milk seems to be changing, there’s no need to panic! It is designed to adapt over time to meet the changing needs of your child. For example, your first few days of feeding or pumping will produce milk. Known as colostrum, this first milk helps your newborn transition to life outside of the womb. It is packed with protein and other nutrients designed to fight infection and promote healthy digestion. Your breast milk changes over the next few weeks, becoming transitional and then mature milk as your baby continues to grow. The progressive evolution of your milk over the first few weeks after delivery meets the developing needs of your little one.

You also produce breast milk with unique properties at each feeding. At the beginning of a feeding, your body releases foremilk. It is high in volume but low in calories to help your baby feel full and eliminate immediate hunger. As the feeding progresses, you will produce hindmilk, which is low in volume and high in nutrients and calories to help your baby grow. Additionally, if you are breastfeeding through cold and flu season, your body will also produce antibodies that add an extra layer of protection to help your baby stay healthy.

Diet Affects Your Breast Milk

Although breastfeeding is a natural process, your body works extremely hard to produce enough milk to keep your new child full. You need to consume around 400-500 additional calories and at least ten 8 ounce glasses of water each day to make up for what you’re working off when you are breastfeeding. It’s also important to take a multivitamin to make up for whatever nutrients you aren’t getting in your diet. Ask your doctor about the best breastfeeding vitamins or supplements for you!

Remember that baby eats whatever mommy eats! Be sure to stick to a balanced diet full of protein, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats so your baby gets the most nutritious breast milk. The color and flavor of your milk may even change based on what you eat! 

Proper Breast Milk Storage is Essential

Breastfeeding is not easy, and you won’t want a drop of breast milk to go to waste. That’s why proper storage is so important. According to the CDC, freshly pumped breast milk can stay at room temperature for up to four hours, in a refrigerator for up to four days, and in a freezer for about six months. The milk must be stored in an airtight container to ensure safety and quality for your little one. 

Your Baby Will Set the Pace of Feedings

When it comes to breastfeeding, your child can set the pace of feedings depending on their needs. Feeding on demand instead of on a rigid schedule is better for meeting your baby’s evolving hunger needs and increases your milk supply. It is especially important to let your little one set the pace of feedings, so your body is ready for the inevitable growth spurts in the first few weeks. Your little one may initiate cluster feedings, where the baby feeds for a short period of time but more frequently throughout the day. Their instincts during these cluster feedings promote an increase in your milk supply to make sure you produce enough milk to support your child’s crucial growth spurts. 

Your baby will also develop distinct signs when they are hungry and when they are full. Crying is one of the later signs of hunger, so be aware of early indicators such as restlessness, rooting, putting a hand to the mouth, or smacking the lips to avoid a breakdown. During a feeding, your child will also let you know when they get full. If your baby turns their head away from your breast or bottle, closes their mouth, or relaxes their hands, your little one may be done eating. If your baby seems to get full after feeding from just one breast, it’s important to pump from your other breast to promote steady milk supply and to make sure none of your breast milk goes to waste!

Pumps For Mom is Here to Help

Though the benefits of breast milk are numerous, breastfeeding is easier said than done. Feedings every few hours can be exhausting for new moms, but the use of a breast pump may take some of the pressure off. Is your little one having trouble latching to the breast? Want to pass the baton to your partner for some nighttime feedings? Heading back to work but want to continue breastfeeding? A breast pump is your solution! 

Pumps For Mom is here to streamline the process of getting a free breast pump through your health insurance.  We have been providing insurance-covered breast pumps for moms across the country for over 15 years, and our expertise can’t be matched. With our simple qualification form, you can immediately see what breast pumps you qualify for through your insurance. Pumps For Mom does the legwork to make sure your ideal breast pump gets to you as soon as possible and at the lowest possible cost. We would love to work with you and your insurance to provide your ideal breast pump, so you and your baby can experience the joys of breastfeeding!