Is Plant Protein Powder Good for lactating mothers?

Is Plant Protein Powder Good for Lactating Mothers? A Complete Guide

Lactating mothers have heightened nutritional needs. Breastfeeding requires extra calories, proteins, and essential nutrients to support both mother and baby. Quality nutrition in these stages is crucial, as it impacts milk supply and the overall health of the baby. Traditional sources of protein are often recommended, but plant protein powders are growing in popularity. This shift toward plant-based diets for lactating mothers raises an important question: Is plant protein powder safe and beneficial during breastfeeding? And the answer is YES, Plant Proteins are the best things lactating mothers should have, but should always read the ingredients of what Plant Protein is made up of.

Importance of Protein During Lactation

Protein plays an essential role during breastfeeding. It supports tissue repair and aids the development of the baby’s muscles, organs, and immune system. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), lactating mothers should consume around 71 grams of protein per day to meet their increased needs.

Benefits of Protein in Breastfeeding:

• Builds and repairs tissues
• Supports baby’s immune system
• Provides amino acids essential for growth
• Helps maintain the mother’s energy levels

Many experts suggest plant protein powder for lactating mothers due to its easy digestion, nutrient-dense profile, and variety of essential nutrients.

Why Plant-Based Protein? An Overview

Plant-based proteins have become popular due to their nutritional profile and environmental sustainability. Plant protein powders are derived from sources like almonds, flaxseed, and cocoa powder, offering a natural, clean protein source free of animal products.

For lactating mothers, plant protein powders provide a balanced alternative to traditional protein sources like meat or dairy. Sheer MADness Plant Protein Chocolate from the brand Sheer MADness is particularly beneficial. Made from almonds, flaxseed, cocoa powder, and pure dark chocolate, it contains no additives, preservatives, or colourings, making it a safe option for breastfeeding.

Health Benefits of Sheer MADness Plant Protein Chocolate for Lactating Mothers

1. Nutrient-Dense Profile
   • Almonds, flaxseed, and cocoa powder are packed with essential nutrients like protein, fiber, and antioxidants.
   • These ingredients support energy, immune health, and mental clarity.
2. 100% Chemical-Free
   • Sheer MADness products are free from additives, preservatives, or artificial colourings.
   • Lactating mothers benefit from pure ingredients that do not expose their baby to harmful chemicals.
3. Rich in Omega-3 and Fiber
   • Flaxseed, a core ingredient in Sheer MADness Plant Protein Chocolate, is high in omega-3 fatty acids.
   • Omega-3s are vital for brain development and reducing inflammation, which benefits both mother and baby.
4. Natural Cocoa for Antioxidants
   • Cocoa powder in this blend provides natural antioxidants.
   • Antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress, which can be elevated due to hormonal changes and the physical demands of breastfeeding.
5. Energy Support
   • Breastfeeding can be exhausting, and Sheer MADness Plant Protein Chocolate provides an energy boost.
   • The natural ingredients support sustained energy levels without the crash associated with refined sugars or caffeine.

Research on Plant-Based Protein Powders for Lactating Mothers

Research on plant-based diets and lactation offers promising insights. Studies show that plant proteins are well-tolerated and nutritionally adequate for most individuals, including lactating mothers.

1. Plant Proteins and Digestibility
   • Research indicates that plant-based proteins are easier to digest than animal-based proteins. This aspect is beneficial during lactation, where comfort and digestion are essential.
2. Almonds and Milk Production
   • According to a study published in the Journal of Human Lactation, almonds are among the foods believed to support milk production. They are nutrient-dense, providing proteins, healthy fats, and antioxidants, all critical for lactating mothers.
3. Flaxseed and Omega-3s
   • Studies show that flaxseed is a rich source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid beneficial for both mother and baby. ALA supports brain health and can pass through breast milk to benefit the infant’s brain development.
4. Cocoa and Mood Regulation
   • Cocoa contains compounds that help improve mood, which is valuable for new mothers dealing with postpartum hormonal changes. A study in Nutrients found that cocoa’s natural compounds can help elevate mood by promoting the release of serotonin and dopamine.

These studies underscore the benefits of plant-based ingredients for breastfeeding mothers, particularly the ones found in Sheer MADness Plant Protein Chocolate.

Key Ingredients in Sheer MADness Plant Protein Chocolate: Nutritional Highlights

Almonds

Almonds are rich in protein, healthy fats, and Vitamin E. They are known for their ability to boost energy and aid in tissue repair. Almonds also contain calcium and magnesium, which support bone health in both mother and baby.

Flaxseed

Flaxseed provides essential omega-3 fatty acids, which are vital for brain health and reducing inflammation. It’s also high in fiber, helping mothers maintain digestive health during postpartum recovery.

Cocoa Powder

Cocoa is a powerful antioxidant source that helps combat stress and improve mood. For lactating mothers, cocoa can be beneficial in reducing oxidative stress and supporting mental health.

Pure Dark Chocolate

The pure dark chocolate in Sheer MADness provides a rich, satisfying flavor without refined sugars. Dark chocolate contains iron and magnesium, both essential for energy and muscle function.

Benefits of Plant-Based Protein for Breastfeeding Mothers

1. Easier Digestion
   • Many mothers experience digestive issues postpartum. Plant proteins are less likely to cause bloating or discomfort, making them a better choice for sensitive stomachs.
2. Low Allergenic Potential
   • Unlike dairy or soy proteins, plant proteins generally have a lower allergenic potential. This reduces the likelihood of allergens passing through breast milk to the baby.
3. Weight Management
   • Postpartum weight management is a concern for many mothers. Plant protein powders are low in calories yet filling, supporting weight management goals naturally.
4. Hormonal Balance
   • Breastfeeding demands can impact hormones, leading to fatigue and mood swings. Ingredients like flaxseed help regulate hormone levels by providing essential fatty acids.
5. Reduced Inflammation
   • Plant-based diets, rich in antioxidants and fiber, help reduce inflammation. Flaxseed and almonds in Sheer MADness Protein Powder help combat inflammation and support healing postpartum.

Incorporating Sheer MADness Plant Protein into a Lactating Mother’s Diet

Incorporating Sheer MADness Plant Protein Chocolate into a lactating mother’s diet is simple. Here are some ideas:

1. Smoothies
   Blend one scoop with a cup of almond milk, a banana, and a handful of spinach for a nutrient-dense smoothie.
2. Breakfast Bowls
   Add Sheer MADness Protein to oatmeal or yoghurt for a protein boost.
3. Protein-Packed Snacks
   Mix with energy balls made of dates, oats, and almond butter for an on-the-go snack.

Studies and Recommendations on Plant Proteins for Lactating Mothers

While research on plant-based diets during breastfeeding is still growing, existing studies support plant proteins’ safety and benefits for lactating mothers.

1. National Institute of Health (NIH)
   NIH guidelines suggest that plant proteins are a safe alternative to animal proteins for lactating mothers when balanced with varied nutrients.
2. American Dietetic Association (ADA)
   The ADA acknowledges that well-planned plant-based diets are nutritionally adequate for all stages of life, including lactation.
3. Journal of Perinatal Education
   This journal discusses plant-based diets as beneficial for maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of postpartum complications.

Conclusion: Sheer MADness Plant Protein – A Safe Choice for Lactating Mothers

For lactating mothers seeking a reliable protein source, Sheer MADness Plant Protein Chocolate provides an excellent option. The blend of almonds, flaxseed, cocoa powder, and pure dark chocolate is both nutritious and chemical-free. Plant-based protein powders like Sheer MADness support energy, mood, and milk production, making them a balanced choice for breastfeeding mothers.

Switching to a plant-based protein powder can be a step toward healthier, natural nutrition for both mother and child. Sheer MADness Plant Protein Chocolate offers a pure, clean, and convenient solution to meet these needs effectively.

I would also request you to please read my previous post: Plant Protein, Protein Everything you should be aware of.

Before I finish, here are a few important facts to consider: 

These are the same lines from my book “Great Health Comes from Exercise & Nutrition”

a) Everyone is an individual, so what suits me, may or may not suit the next person.

b) If a person has a medical condition, a doctor’s advice and prescribed medication will only help.

c) While buying any protein powder from the market read the labels carefully. Also, watch out for various codes, and words like Anti-caking agent, and INS 551( Also known as Silicon dioxide), All these are laboratory-made chemicals, and although approved by regulatory bodies think twice, will you consume a spoon of Silicon dioxide? And Silicon dioxide is just one product, there are numerous others like BHA ( Butylated hydroxyanisole ), BHT ( Butylated hydroxytoluene ) and the list of lab-made chemicals goes on and on with various codes, that we generally ignore.

Hence read the labels especially the ingredients list of the product before buying.

If you are interested in buying chemical-free Natural vegan Protein powder, Health drinks for kids or our delicious but chemical-free Energy bars and Protein bars shop @ Sheer MADness.

One can also buy our Products From Flipkart, Jio Mart or ONDC in India.

d) Exercise is the key to fitness, we should always keep in mind that exercise and nutrition are two sides of the same coin and always go hand in hand. So only nutrition will not help you attain any goals till it is not supplemented with Exercise.

e) Excess of anything is wrong, it can be the best nutrient-filled superfood, but one should consume only recommended quantities.

f) Regarding health, fitness, and nutrition, remember that Rome was not built in a day. Your discipline and consistency is the key.

g) It’s not only Exercise and protein that builds muscles, but there are numerous other factors like a healthy gut, numerous macro and micronutrients, your body type and DNA, the amount of rest the body gets, the lifestyle an individual lives, and on and on it goes. Out of all these, exercise and nutrition are within our control, and one should focus on these two primary aspects.

h) The most important part of fitness is that nothing is better than exercise and a balanced meal.

 Article by Chef Ashutosh Awasthi.

Disclaimer: Our products are a source of HEALTHY NUTRIENTS and COMPLETELY FREE OF ANY ADDED CHEMICALS.

We do not claim to cure any medical condition.

The information provided is informational. We do not claim to diagnose or treat a person with any specific medical condition.