# Does Maternal Diet Vary During the Postpartum Period According to Infant Feeding Type? The Observational Study GREEN MOTHER

## TL;DR

This study found that breastfeeding and non-breastfeeding mothers have similar diets, with both groups not meeting recommended nutrient intake levels.

## Contribution

The study provides new empirical evidence on dietary habits of postpartum mothers in relation to infant feeding type.

## Key findings

- Mean energy intake was lower than recommended in 57% of participants.
- Breastfeeding mothers consumed significantly more polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) than non-breastfeeding mothers.
- Insufficient intake of fatty acids and micronutrients like iron, calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D was observed in both groups.

## Abstract

Background: Breastfeeding mothers have an increased demand for nutrients, including increased intake of certain nutrients, and are recommended to consume a theoretical 500 extra kilocalories (kcal), follow a varied diet, and increase protein, carbohydrate, omega-3, iron, and vitamin D intake. Objectives: We sought to analyze mothers’ energy and nutrient intake and food habits during the postpartum period 6 weeks after delivery and to identify whether there are any differences between breastfeeding and non-breastfeeding mothers. Methods: This was a cross-sectional, multicenter observational study at seven sexual and reproductive healthcare centers in the Metropolitan North area of Barcelona (Spain). The sample comprised 393 women who responded to an infant feeding questionnaire and 24 h diet recall (24 HR). We used frequencies and medians for descriptive analysis as well as the chi-squared and Kruskal–Wallis tests for the bivariate analysis. Results: Mean energy intake was lower than the recommendations in 57% of participants. Mothers who exclusively breastfed consumed a median of 201 kcal more than non-breastfeeding mothers, although this was not significant. The intake of fatty acids and micronutrients, such as iron, calcium, magnesium, and especially vitamin D, was insufficient. Breastfeeding mothers consumed significantly more polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) (p = 0.0297): 15.4 g vs. 12.7 g per day. Conclusions: There are no significant differences between the diet of breastfeeding and non-breastfeeding women, except for PUFA intake. A general insufficient intake of the analyzed micronutrients was observed. Educational campaigns and dietary guidance from health professionals are a priority.