When providing nutritional counseling to a new mother who is breastfeeding, the nurse should instruct that her calorie needs should increase by approximately 500 calories per day.
The recommended calorie increase for breastfeeding mothers is as follows:
- During the first 6 months of exclusive breastfeeding, calorie needs increase by 500 calories per day.
- Between 6-12 months of exclusive breastfeeding, calorie needs increase by 400 calories per day.
- For partial or supplemental breastfeeding along with infant formula, calorie needs increase by 400 calories per day.
The increased calorie needs are to support the energy requirements for milk production and maintenance of the mother's health. On average, a breastfeeding mother produces about 25-35 ounces of breastmilk per day, which requires taking in 500 extra calories to meet this demand.
The extra calories should come from a balanced diet of protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins, and minerals. The nurse should provide education on making nutritious diet choices and the importance of hydration, rather than eating empty calories.
In summary, the nurse should instruct the new breastfeeding mother that she needs an extra 500 calories per day, ideally through selection of healthy foods and beverages, to support milk production and her own nutritional needs. This recommendation is for exclusive breastfeeding in the first 6 months postpartum.