I just had a baby, so my new year’s resolution is to lose the baby weight but I also want to make sure to have good nutrition while I am breastfeeding. What are some foods you would recommend? What foods should I avoid?

Breastfeeding is a wonderful way to help you lose weight after childbirth. Breastfeeding requires more calories (about 500 more calories per day), protein, vitamins, and minerals than you needed before pregnancy. The exact number of calories you need is determined by how much you are nursing. The more you nurse, the higher your calorie needs.
• Eating a healthy, balanced diet will give your body what it needs and it will help you to produce quality breast milk for your baby.
• Consume a wide variety of food from all the food groups.
• Extra calories should be from nutritious foods, such as lean meats, low-fat or fat-free dairy products, fruits, vegetables, and whole grain breads and cereals.
• If you feel that you baby is bothered by a certain food that you eat, stop eating the food for at least three days and try it again when your baby is older.
• Drink approximately 12 eight fluid ounce caffeine-free drinks per day, according to thirst. Having a glass of water each time you nurse your baby can help you get the fluids you need.