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Breast milk is believed to be the strongest and most precious form of nutrition for newborn babies. But while taking care of the baby and providing them with the essential nutrients, mothers often neglect their health. Ignoring your health during the postpartum phase can make the recovery process difficult. You may even find it challenging to regain your strength. Besides this, a nutrient-rich diet is essential for producing high-quality breast milk for newborns. So, to support your nutritional needs, we have curated a list of the best protein powders for breastfeeding moms. They can help provide essential nutrients, which can enhance milk production, and nutritional intake and support the healing process after childbirth. Regular intake of protein powders may even help combat fatigue, boost energy, reduce hunger and support your weight management goals. So, pick out your favourite product from our top picks!
This Pro360 Lacton Protein Powder is the perfect choice for lactating women. It serves as the best lactation supplement for breastfeeding mothers because it is especially designed using a high protein source. Enriched with natural ingredients like cumin, fennel, curcumin, Elaichi, Moringa and fenugreek, the powder enhances the breast milk supply and also helps in development of infants’ brain. Additionally, the brand claims that the product is 100 percent vegetarian and contains no added sugar, which makes it healthy to consume.
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Emcure Emwise Post Baby Whey Protein Powder is one of the best protein powders for breastfeeding moms because it claims to be made up of 13 herbal extracts. It helps new moms in postnatal recovery. Enriched with amla, ashwagandha and guduchi, the powder maintains the mental and physical wellbeing of new moms. Additionally, it also helps in maintaining a healthy digestion because of the presence of ginger, basil leaves and licorice extract. The brand also claims that the product is 100 percent gluten free, soy free, sugar free and it maintains the hormonal balance in the body.
Pro360 MOM Maternal Nutrition Protein Powder is packed with nutritional ingredients like dry fruits, and nuts. It can infuse your body with dietary fibres, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, which may help provide complete nourishment during pregnancy and lactation phase. It is rich in protein and other essential nutrients, which can help promote overall health and wellness during pregnancy and lactation period. This protein powder contains saffron that aids digestion and helps combat mood swings. The brand also states that this protein powder is free from added sugar, which helps manage blood sugar levels and minimise the risk of gestational diabetes during pregnancy.
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Pro Nutrine Whey Protein Powder for Women is specially designed with a blend of 28 essential minerals and vitamins for optimal health. This calcium-rich protein powder may help support bone health and overall well-being. With its chocolate flavour, this protein powder makes for an ideal choice for pregnant and lactating women as it may help satiate their cravings. This whey protein powder contains DHA, iron, and folic acid and is free from gluten and trans fat. It may help support a baby’s brain development, promote a healthy lactation and support a healthy weight.
Standing by its name, this Cosmix No-Nonsense Plant Protein because the brand claims that it is the cleanest plant protein. This non-chalky protein powder includes 9 vital amino acids. Additionally, enriched with ingredients like ginger, fennel, cumin and fenugreek, which enhances the digestion and absorption of the protein. Moreover, the chikmagalur mocha flavour of this protein powder allows you to enjoy the healthy drink without affecting your taste bud. The brand also claims that the product is chemically free, which makes it safe for you to use as it will not have any harmful effects on your baby as well.
Vivamom Maternal Nutrition Supplement Powder is formulated with whey protein and casein protein. It may help reduce the risk of low birth weight and help improve foetal growth. This protein powder may also support bowel frequency and stool consistency. It can help meet your increased dietary fibre needs during pregnancy. Regular intake of this protein powder may help support your immune function.
Develo Pregnancy & Lactation Protein Powder contains DHA and choline, which helps with brain development. This protein powder for lactating women promises to help you meet 100% of your daily requirements of vitamin B, vitamin B12 and C. It may also help provide vitamin B2, iron and folic acid for lactation. This protein powder also promises to promote lactation. The brand states that this product contains milk and soy ingredients, so consult your doctor before including the protein powder in your diet.
Gytree Protein Powder for Women promises to provide 26 grams of dual plant-based protein powder per serving. It is packed with essential multivitamins, minerals and Ayurvedic herbal extracts, which may help with weight loss, weight gain, weight management and hormonal balance. By providing a rich flavour of coffee, this protein powder may support the endocrine system, help produce oestrogen and boost immunity. The brand also claims that this product is certified GMP, ISO, HACCP and FSSAI.
This protein supplement from Yummy for Mummy might be a good choice for lactating women. It promises to help you meet your nutritional requirements, support recovery from physiological changes and enhance bone health. This protein supplement may even help you regain your body shape. Packed with higher folic acid, vitamin B complex, vitamin C, calcium, iron, Shatavari extract and vitamin K2-7, this protein supplement may assist in weight management and support bone health. The brand also claims that this product is free from gluten, sugar, synthetic colours and artificial sweeteners.
While there are several benefits of protein powders, it is important for breastfeeding mothers to understand its side-effects as well. Even one of the best protein powders for breastfeeding women has its own cons and understanding them are crucial.
1. Protein powders often contain allergens like soy, dairy and whey. And breastfeeding moms should be aware about these before using them as it can create problems for their newborns as well.
2. Protein powders also create digestive issues like gas, bloating and constipation.
3. Protein powders contain artificial sweeteners, flavours and preservatives, which affects the health of mom and newborn baby.
4. High protein consumption can also increase the body’s need for water. Therefore, breastfeeding mothers should stay hydrated as it can also impact the milk production.
5. Only relying on protein powders for energy can create an imbalance in nutrient intake.
Here is a guide to help you choose the right protein powder for breastfeeding women:
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According to a study published in ELSEVIER Current Developments in Nutrition, the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI) for protein recommends that healthy lactating women should consume 1.05 grams of protein per kilogram per day.
According to the Institute of Medicine (US) Committee on Nutritional Status During Pregnancy and Lactation, lactating mothers need to include calcium, zinc, magnesium, vitamin B6, folate and thiamin in their diet. These essential nutrients can be obtained from milk, cheese, yoghurt, meat, fish, green vegetables, whole grains, nuts and more.
Whey protein is considered safe for health. However excessive consumption of this powder over a long period may cause adverse effects. Without the proper guidance, it may impact the kidney and liver function.
(Disclaimer: At Health Shots, we make a constant effort to break the clutter for our readers. All products listed are carefully curated by the editorial team but use your discretion and an expert’s opinion before using them. Their price and availability may differ from the time of publication. If you buy something using these links in the story, we may earn a commission.)
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