How I'm happy, healthy, and pumping a ton of milk!

Breastfeeding can be one of the most rewarding, stressful, and beautiful things a mother can experience. It does not come without difficulties. I've been stressed, cried many times, and thought about giving up at least once in my little ones 3 months of being with us.

I'm here to tell you how I'm making it. Not just making enough milk plus producing a large stash, but also how I've kept my sanity, stayed healthy, and lost some weight.

1. Support

Unfortunately, I know that many new moms do not have a support system. Feel free to find me on Instagram if you need mommy talk. I'm extremely lucky to have an amazing husband, grandparents that want to babysit, and mom friends that I can talk to. Giving yourself a break is so important. If you're stressed, you will not produce as much milk. Things that help when I'm stressed, working out (even if its a walk), laughing, sleep (lol right, but I get sleep when I can), proper nutrition, and playing with my little one.

2. Water

I know, very blog you read will tell you water is essential, that's because it is. I'm not talking about a glass with each meal. You should be drinking a lot of water and keep properly hydrated with electrolytes. Especially if you're active like I am. I notice an immediate drop in my milk supply when I'm not drinking enough water. I also like to drink water from a fun cup. Just ask my husband, I love my cups!

3. Nutrition

I'm so not perfect when it comes to nutrition. I'm not a cook, and I would much rather order take out than cook something. However, I know the value of proper nutrition and the benefits it has not only to myself, but the precious little girl that my body is feeding. Here's my tip: eat all the fruits and veggies. Don't count calories, stop worry about losing weight, just eat healthy foods and don't sweat it if you have a piece of cake at a birthday party. I love making fruit smoothies in the mornings and I always add veggies to my pasta dishes. Speaking of pasta, there are a ton of alternative pastas such as quinoa, gluten free, and whole wheat that are much healthier! Make sure you're taking a multivitamin and probiotic to fill in all nutritional gaps you may have (cause we are not perfect).

4. Pumping

Producing milk is also about supply and demand. I would recommend pumping. Now I'll be honest, I do not pump on a schedule (does anyone have time to follow a pumping schedule?) I do make sure that I pump every time I give my daughter a bottle to make sure I'm letting my body know that I need that milk. I do not pump at night unless I'm in pain (breastfeeding moms know what I mean). Trust your body, its an amazing thing. Your body will regulate your supple based on your child's needs. Don't stress! I'm currently keeping at least 8 ounces in the fridge and storing at least 6 ounces a day in the freezer.

5. Supplements

Now listen, without doing the things above, supplements might not have the same effect. I've noticed my supply increase, better moods, and weight loss with these supplements. I've had these supplements approved by my physician.

Staying healthy and happy while breastfeeding as extremely important. I hope these simple tips help make your journey a little easier!