Breastfeeding is nature's way of providing a baby with all the essential nutrients needed. Breastfeeding also helps the mother to maintain a proper hormone balance which will provide resistance to the risk of disease and infection following the birth of her child. Problems may occur, however, such as swelling and tenderness in the breast, nipple cracking, and insufficient milk supply. The production of too much milk in the breast can also cause painful engorged breasts. Swelling in the nipples can moreover make it harder for a baby to get a grip during suckling. The breast can also become swollen, red and hot during a condition known as mastitis, in which an infection sets in within the glands in the breasts, and is often accompanied by fever and fatigue in the mother.

Problems may encourage the mother to discontinue breastfeeding, but numerous studies have shown that breastfeeding is much healthier than formula for both the mother and child. A baby gets all vital nutrition from its mothers milk, as opposed to formula which is merely the next best thing. Regular sessions of breastfeeding the child must not be stopped merely because the breast is painful or inflamed. The flow of milk is an essential condition for healing to occur in the affected breast, even in the case of mastitis, which will not harm the baby.

Breastfeeding mothers should get nutrients from a varied, well-balanced diet. Eating lots of fruits and vegetables, and whole grains is recommended. Nursing mothers should drink at least 8-12 cups of water daily. It is mostly safe for breastfeeding mothers to eat any foods they like. While some foods may flavor the breast milk, babies seldom react to this. Caffeine, in moderate amounts (equal to 1 to 2 cups of coffee daily), consumed by a nursing mother will probably not cause harm to her baby, but any more caffeine than that may cause restlessness for the baby. Stress, anxiety or emotional fatigue may increase the chances of having problems with the breast.

Some vitamins and herbs are considered helpful in treating breastfeeding problems. Always consult your health care professional before using herbs or supplements. Herbs, and other healing foods, which may help increase milk production include: alfalfa, anise, basil, blessed thistle, caraway, dill, milk thistle, papaya, peanuts, raspberry, sesame seeds, and stinging nettle, as well as B complex, manganese, and protein. Herbs which are used to decrease milk production include: black walnut, sage, and yarrow. If nipple Infection occurs, it may be beneficial to take dandelion, echinacea, garlic, or vitamins B6 and E. Herbs which may be applied to sore or swollen breasts include: aloe vera, calendula, and parsley.

The presence of all kinds of chemicals, solvents, and toxic metals in the environment must be screened, as they can find their way into the mother's milk and thus indirectly to the baby. The types of food consumed by the mother may also have an effect on the baby, as they can be very sensitive to certain ingredients in their mothers diet. Avoid alcohol while breastfeeding. Nicotine and other chemicals from cigarettes be found in breast milk, so if you smoke, so does your baby. If you are a smoker, this is a great time to quit for yourself and for your baby. Many medications will also pass into the mother's milk. Even taking over-the-counter cold remedies can decrease milk supplies. Check with your physician before taking any medications.

Disclaimer: This article is for entertainment purposes only, and is not intended for use as diagnosis or treatment of a health problem or as a substitute for consulting a licensed medical professional.