Before Fasting Ramadan, Mother Breastfeeding Must Pay Attention To This

Illustration of breastfeeding mothers (Photo: Freepik)

JAKARTA - Mothers need to pay attention to several things in breastfeeding during Ramadan. This is in order to maintain the health of mothers and children.

Dr. Jeanne Roos Tikoalu, Sp.A, IBCLC assesses that breastfeeding mothers can still fast during Ramadan because the production of breast milk (ASI) does not depend on the many-slight foods consumed.

"Breast production does not depend on the minimum number of mothers eating. Please note the philosophy of how to maintain breast milk production so that it is maintained," Jeanne said, quoting Antara, Saturday, January 18.

Although a lot of food does not affect the production of breast milk, the quality of breast milk can be influenced by the food the mother consumes. Jeanne advised breastfeeding mothers to maintain nutritional intake while fasting Ramadan.

"The quality of breast milk can depend on the consumption of mother's food, so it is recommended that even though you fast, still try to eat various types and tastes. If necessary, you can drink mineral vitamins," said Jeanne.

According to Jeanne, in order to maintain breast milk production, breastfeeding mothers should routinely remove breast milk, either by breastfeeding the baby directly or with the help of breast milk pumps.

Contacted separately, dr. Melanie Yudiana Iskandar, SpA advises breastfeeding mothers not to fast during Ramadan if the baby is under 6 months old because it is still in exclusive breastfeeding period.

"If he's an exclusive breast milk baby, still under 6 months and hasn't eaten yet, it's still very dependent on his mother for milk and nutrition. I don't recommend fasting," Melanie said.

Mothers can try fasting if the baby is over 6 months old and has consumed breast milk complements (MPASI). Melanie also reminded that babies aged 6 to 12 months still need large amounts of breast milk.