Question

Carrie is a friend of yours and a new mother who gave birth to her first baby three months ago. Over lunch, she tells you that she is preparing to go back to her job as a high profile lawyer; however, she is worried because she heard from a co-worker that her boss does not like women to pump breastmilk at work. She also comments that she hasn't lost her pregnancy weight and is going to start a low carbohydrate diet.  Explain what the law is in California pertaining to a woman's right to breastfeed at work? Also, explain if a low carbohydrate diet is compatible with breastfeeding - why or why not? What suggestions can you make for your friend regarding her re-entry to work and desire to lose weight healthfully?

Answer 1

In California there is a law that the employer should provide their employees with lactation break.They can pump breast milk during their work at the right time without disturbing or interrupting the work on progress of themselves or to their employers.They are given a minimum time of 15 to 20 minutes to pump breast milk and it may vary depending upon the situation. They should be provided a safe environment with privacy o do this.Ot is ideal to do this in the lunch break time.

A complete low carbohydrate diet should be avoided because this will lead to production of ketones which can dramatically affect the baby's health.The mother too will have a very low calorie and will have consequences in regards to it. It is good to have atleast 50 grams 9f carbohydrates d as ily in the diet to stay a healthy breastfeeding mother.

The suggestion which can be provided are

• Moderate carbohydrate diet
• Starting post natal exercise and doing it daily on regular basis
• Being  physically active
• Stress free
• Avoid excess oil ,fats ,fast foods and unhealthy foods in work place
• Maintain a balanced diet