Breastfeeding is one of the greatest ways we can support our new babies. If you are unable to breastfeed for some reason, please don’t feel that this article is trying to shame you in any way. We all do the best we can for our babies! If you or someone in your life is breastfeeding, however, here is a wonderful way to create more support for that relationship to flourish.

Create a breastfeeding support basket (or other container) that includes most if not all of the following items: 

One of the things that any breastfeeding person will tell you is that you get really, really thirsty. So hydration, particularly water, is key. I suggest water in glass to avoid any possibly damaging chemicals leeching from plastic bottles (read more about this issue by clicking here) If you can find a water bottle with a silicone cover that could be helpful to avoid breaking bottles if it gets dropped for some reason. 

Snacks: You also get really, really hungry when you’re breastfeeding. I highly suggest protein-rich snacks that have fat and carbs in them as well. Find some pre-packaged snacks that can be stored outside of the fridge to stash in a breastfeeding support container of some sort near where breastfeeding usually takes place.

Snacks I like to support breastfeeding folks:

-Preserved meats or protein sources such as more natural, low nitrate jerkies or pemmican bars made with fish, beef, poultry, soy, etc.

-Nuts and/or seeds: please note that some infants can be sensitive to nuts, do not ingest if this is the case for your child!

-Olives: you can get small individual serving packs that are safe outside of the refrigerator: an excellent source of fats.

-Dried fruit (go for organic, no added sugar versions as best you can.)

-Chocolate: Particularly dark chocolate. Did you know that chocolate (cacao) has been used for thousands of years to support women who are pregnant/have recently had a child/breasfteeding? Read more about it by clicking here.

Please note: sometimes babies will be bothered by breastmilk from someone who is eating chocolate: remove if it causes an issue.

Other helpful items: a charger or backup charging device for your smart phone/other device, books and/or magazines, a portable nightlight or flashlight if you’re up with the baby at night, a scarf/hoodie/warm socks/blanket/extra pillows to stay warm if you are up in the middle of the night with the baby. If you are crafty and it works for your nursing situation: crochet or knitting supplies.

Consider creating one or more breastfeeding support stations before baby comes and keep them well supplied after baby arrives. The breastfeeding person in your life will be very grateful!

Dr. Corinne Harpster is a naturopathic physician. She specializes in women's and children's health. You can make an appointment with her by clicking here.