Mothers in motion

Proper Nutrition
Vegetarians
Teenage Mothers
Snacking
Food and Fluid Guide

Mothers of New Babies and Toddlers

Proper Nutrition

Teenage Mothers

You are still growing so your body needs energy from healthy foods to support your growth. You also need energy from healthy foods to help you recover from pregnancy and childbirth. Add to this the energy needs of breastfeeding your baby and you may find that you need to eat and drink a lot just to fulfill basic needs!

Important tips for teenage breastfeeding mothers in motion:

 

  • Eat a variety of healthy foods. Follow the recommendations in Eating Well with Canada’s Food Guide.  

  • Aim for at least the upper limit of the number of servings in each food group, since you need more energy than other young women your age. A healthy balanced diet will provide you with energy to take care of your baby and also give you the energy to resume an active lifestyle. Don't be afraid to add extra servings if you feel hungry during your busy and active day.

  • Breastfeeding demands a lot of your body's energy so plan to eat a healthy snack after each breastfeeding session. Make sure that you have a regular eating pattern of 3 meals and at least 2 snacks every day.

  • If you are planning to do more frequent or intense physical activities, you will need to consume even more foods and fluids. Larger snacks can be part of that!

  • Track your progress. To help you out with all these recommendations, use the Food and Fluid Intake Guide for physically active and breastfeeding mothers. Keep track of your healthy habits and how you feel with the Mothers in Motion Healthy Habits Log.

  • As a breastfeeding mother, you must drink enough fluids, and not just the amount that quenches your thirst. You must always be well HYDRATED!