breastfeeding and exercise?

[ithoughtofitfirst]

I know loads of people probably exercise and breastfeed but i just wondered if anyone knows how much is safe and won't affect the milk? I'm a runner and was wondering if a few 5k runs a week would be ok? I can always do less if needs be but want to get back into it as much as i can get away with really. I didn't bother getting back into it last time until after i stopped because i had pnd... but i think if i'd run it might have helped the pnd.

I can't imagine it would affect your supply at all. I failed to start running again after having DS, but I walked a lot and I'm still feeding him after a year.

Your supply is mainly controlled by signals from the baby - feeding = more supply (generally). I just can't see how running might have a negative effect.

Running and indeed any exercise has no effect on bf. If you like it, do it :)

I have been back at gym since DD was 9 weeks old. I'm not a runner but do fairly high impact exercise classes. No impact on breast milk at all. :) have fun!

Cheers ladies. I think i'll just do a cheeky run and if i feel like it's given me a dodgy supply or something i will just do brisk walking.

Nice one redrose that's literally made my shitty day!

I do 10km twice a week no problems with supply

I think there was one bit of research once (i.e. never replicated) that speculated that vigorous exercise might alter the flavour of some women's milk, hence some fussiness with feeds. However, there is no evidence that exercise touches supply. Remember our cavewomen ancestors were nomadic, so did a heck of a lot more exercise than we can ever do and the human race is still going thanks to their boobs

I love a good cavewoman analogy

processedbeats high 5! Oh god i don't even know if i could do 5k atm because i had to stop running at 25 weeks. It was just too damn hot!

It didnt affect my supply.

But it did leave me feeling exhausted. For some reason I can't do lots of exercise and breastfeed....

Glad to hear it ithought :) it was SO good to get back in the gym after being pregnant. Great to get a bit of something back that's just for you.

Elphaba, I read that too and did wonder if DD would be bothered, but she didn't seem to notice!

See this link

kellymom.com/bf/can-i-breastfeed/lifestyle/mom-exercise/

I have started running again in last few weeks. Only issue is bigger boobs that need more support.

Get yourself out for a run, you'll love it. :-)

Oh god yeah actually my boobs are massive and all my sports bras are a B. Good point!

Physio friend did warn me that joints are a lot more flexible when breastfeeding, much as they are during pregnancy. So just be a little more aware of uneven ground as you'll be at greater risk of turning your ankles or knees. Have fun!

Thanks baking that's a great tip. My shins hate uneven ground anyway!