can you breastfeed and...

[janet4jesu]

Hi I am new and considering to start atkins today. I did it in 1999 and only managed to stay with it for 3 months. I just had a baby 2 months ago and I am breastfeeding and formula feeding. Was wondering If you could do atkins and also keep nursing. btw my name is Janette aka Jenna

thanks alot :)

[ankka]

Jenna, I am currently breastfeeding my 5 month old and eating a low carb diet. I'm on maintenance level carbs (don't think it would be good to eat at induction levels while nursing) and I find that I can (and need) to eat a lot more food than even when I was pregnant. I eat meat and veggies, but also lots of fruit, nuts, and even quite a bit of dark belgian chocolate with no problem as far weight gain. The baby seems fine and is gaining weight normally according to his pediatrician. Just stay away from carby, sugary overprocessed stuff and stick to whole foods as best you can. You may not lose weight, but you probably won't gain any either.

[ankka]

One more thing, just remember that starting at maintenance levels now, although you may not lose weight, will get you in the habit of better eating and cut cravings. The baby will be done nursing before you know it and then you can get more serious about cutting carbs.

[janet4jesu]

Thanks alot.. I will take your advise.