Can You Do Keto While Breastfeeding?

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By Krystal Duhaney | Updated on Dec 3, 2023
Image for article Can You Do Keto While Breastfeeding?

While following a ketogenic diet while breastfeeding is possible, it's important to approach it with some caution and consider a few factors.

Although research shows1  that a low-carb, high-fat diet such as the ketogenic diet can lead to a higher concentration of fat in breast milk (and therefore make it more filling for your baby), breastfeeding increases your susceptibility2  to ketoacidosis, where ketone levels in the blood become dangerously high. Therefore, it's crucial to stay well-hydrated, eat an adequate amount of calories and ensure a healthy balance of nutrients.

If you're keen on trying a keto diet while breastfeeding, it's highly recommended to consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare provider who specializes in maternal and infant nutrition. They can help you navigate the diet safely, ensuring you and your little one receive the nourishment you need. Remember, your well-being and that of your baby come first!

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

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  1. Mahmoud A Mohammad, Agneta L Sunehag, and Morey W Haymond"Effect of dietary macronutrient composition under moderate hypocaloric intake on maternal adaptation during lactation"Elsevier, vol. 89, no. 6May 31, 2009https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2682997/.

  2. Louise von Geijer, Magnus Ekelund "Ketoacidosis associated with low-carbohydrate diet in a non-diabetic lactating woman: a case report"BMC, vol. 9, no. 224Sep 30, 2015https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26428083/.


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Updated on Dec 3, 2023

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Can You Do Keto While Breastfeeding?

 Krystal Duhaney Profile Photo
By Krystal Duhaney | Updated on Dec 3, 2023
Image for article Can You Do Keto While Breastfeeding?

While following a ketogenic diet while breastfeeding is possible, it's important to approach it with some caution and consider a few factors.

Although research shows1  that a low-carb, high-fat diet such as the ketogenic diet can lead to a higher concentration of fat in breast milk (and therefore make it more filling for your baby), breastfeeding increases your susceptibility2  to ketoacidosis, where ketone levels in the blood become dangerously high. Therefore, it's crucial to stay well-hydrated, eat an adequate amount of calories and ensure a healthy balance of nutrients.

If you're keen on trying a keto diet while breastfeeding, it's highly recommended to consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare provider who specializes in maternal and infant nutrition. They can help you navigate the diet safely, ensuring you and your little one receive the nourishment you need. Remember, your well-being and that of your baby come first!

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

Want evidence-based health & wellness advice for fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum delivered to your inbox?

Your privacy is important to us. By subscribing you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Expectful uses only high-quality sources, including academic research institutions, medical associations, and subject matter experts.

  1. Mahmoud A Mohammad, Agneta L Sunehag, and Morey W Haymond"Effect of dietary macronutrient composition under moderate hypocaloric intake on maternal adaptation during lactation"Elsevier, vol. 89, no. 6May 31, 2009https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2682997/.

  2. Louise von Geijer, Magnus Ekelund "Ketoacidosis associated with low-carbohydrate diet in a non-diabetic lactating woman: a case report"BMC, vol. 9, no. 224Sep 30, 2015https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26428083/.


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