Here comes the holy month with all the blessings. A mother who breastfeeds in Ramadan needs to follow a different routine. She has put some points into consideration if she considers fasting, to avoid discomfort for both of her and her little one. Here are some details

Can A Breastfeeding Mum Fast in Ramadan?

If she’s worried about her or her little one's health or finds it difficult, she can break her fast.

Some scholars stated that it’s not preferred for her to fast and that it’s even forbidden to fast if she thinks it is going to be cumbersome for her or her baby. Later she can make up for the missed days.

If fasting neither affects her nor the baby, she can fast. It’s advised to consult Muslim scholars regarding the shari’a ruling.
 

The Effect of Fasting on the Breastmilk

Your body can produce milk during fasting. The decrease in the calorie intake doesn't cause a difference in the amount of milk.

Your body adapts by using different ways to burn. It seems that the body makes up for the decrease in food intake by producing more energy and milk.

In fact, a mother can fast up to 24 hours without affecting the quality of the breastmilk. If you start feeling sturdy because of fasting, you may want to break your fast to keep well.

Some studies have shown that nutrients like magnesium, zinc, and potassium decrease in milk when fasting, therefore, try to include them in your diet and break your fast with nutritious foods.

The Effect of Fasting on Your Baby

Fasting doesn’t affect newborns' weight, nor their growth rate. Your body uses its stored fats to form the milk if you don't get enough fats in your diet.

Your baby will get used to the changes in the milk depending on what you eat and how much he needs feeding.

The Effect of Fasting on The Mother’s Health

Your body will adapt well to fasting. Researchers compared the health of breastfeeding mothers who fast and those who don’t. They found the same chemical balance in the blood. It indicates their bodies function well.

Losing more than 0.5- 1 kg per week shouldn’t cause problems on your health or your milk. Talk to your doctor if you notice losing weight rapidly.
 

Signs that You Must Break Your Fast:

Although fasting doesn’t normally affect you,  your baby or the breastmilk, you still need to watch out for some signs and symptoms:

- If you continuously feel tired and you don’t feel ok because of fasting, then you should talk to your doctor

- Keep an eye on signs of dehydration which are:

•    Feeling very thirsty

•    Dark colored urine

•    Feeling dizzy or light-headed

•    Tiredness, weakness, or lacking stamina

•    Dry mouth, lips or eyes

•    A headache

Note: If you notice any of the previous signs, it’s advised to break your fast with water. It’s also preferred to add sugar or salt to the water, then rest as much as possible. If the signs continue for more than an hour and a half after you’ve broken fasting, talk to your doctor.

- If you notice signs that your baby is not getting enough milk like:

• Wetting diapers less frequently
• Asking for more feeds and not feeling satisfied
• weight loss
• Seems generally unsettled

Note: the age of your baby should be taken into consideration. For instance, if your baby is less than 6 months then, he totally depends on breastfeeding. This will help you decide better which is better for you and your baby.

If you find it challenging to fast when breastfeeding, talk to your healthcare professional….

Ramadan Mubarak 

Sources:

BabyCenter Uk