What is the primary goal when adjusting diet for a breastfeeding mother?

The primary goal when adjusting the diet for a breastfeeding mother is to ensure nutritional adequacy for milk production. Breastfeeding requires a substantial increase in energy and nutrients to support both the mother’s health and the development of the infant. Breastfeeding mothers face increased energy needs, and their diet must include sufficient calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals to produce high-quality breast milk.

When a mother is adequately nourished, her body can better produce milk that meets her infant's needs. This involves consuming a well-balanced diet that provides the necessary elements for both lactation and recovery from childbirth. The body's priority is to maintain milk supply, which directly correlates with the mother's nutritional intake.

While increased energy intake is important, it is a component of ensuring nutritional adequacy rather than the primary goal itself. Similarly, weight loss or lowering cholesterol levels may not be immediate concerns for breastfeeding mothers, as the focus should be on providing the essential nutrients for milk production and the overall health of both mother and infant.