Optifast while breastfeeding ?????

[Lukesmum]

Just wondering if anyone has been on optifast while breastfeeding. Jake is almost 6 months now so is having less feeds. I was wondering if I could start just replacing one meal a day with optifast. OR do you think it's a bad idea? Has anyone done this before when breastfeeding? If so did your milk quantity decrease? I'm just putting on too much weight and I need to lose A LOT before June next year. I just cant see it happening if I dont start optifast but I also want to keep breastfeeding. Thanks.

[Ambah]

Hmmm... I don't think its really recommended.

I know with the diet shake replacements, they are designed to put your body into ketosis, which can have toxic byproducts and isn't safe for BF.

Although... I doubt one shake per day would put your body into ketosis....

I would ask them at the pharmacy... but have a feeling they will steer you clear of it if you are BF.

[Indadhanu]

I found this on the Optifast website...

Is the Optifast Program suitable during breastfeeding or lactation?
Nutritional requirements are increased during lactation, these increased requirements are not catered for in the Optifast Program. In addition, while you are moderately fasting, milk production may be reduced – so it is recommended to ensure that your baby is fully weaned before starting the Optifast program.

Though I think that might be talking about the full meal-replacement program...

[Lukesmum]

Thanks Alisia and Ambah,

they are designed to put your body into ketosis, which can have toxic byproducts and isn't safe for BF.

I think I'll wait. I want to breastfeed for 18 months though so that's another year before I can start. It's not worth taking the risk. I thought it may just diminish milk supple and if it started doing that I would of stopped but it sounds as though it is not safe.

[Ambah]

Bear in mind that your body will usually only go into ketosis if you are doing the full strict program - ie, virtually eliminating carbs from your diet.

If you are having one shake per day it may just have the effect of reducing your calorie intake... I would ask the chemist to be sure though!!