When it comes to breastfeeding, there are many nutritional requirements that new moms need to be aware of. In addition to getting enough water, calories, and other essential nutrients, breastfeeding moms also need to pay attention to their hydration levels.
Many moms wonder whether sports drinks like BodyArmor are a good choice for staying hydrated while breastfeeding. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the nutritional content of BodyArmor, as well as the pros and cons of consuming it while breastfeeding.
The Nutritional Content of BodyArmor
BodyArmor is a sports drink that is known for its high electrolyte content. In addition to electrolytes like sodium and potassium, BodyArmor also contains vitamins and coconut water.
One 12-ounce bottle of regular BodyArmor contains the following nutrients:
- 70 calories
- 18 grams of carbohydrates
- 17 grams of sugar
- 100% of the daily recommended value of vitamins A, C, and E
- 100% of the daily recommended value of vitamins B3, B5, B6, and B9
- 100 mg of caffeine (in some flavors)
Overall, BodyArmor is a nutritional beverage that can provide a range of vitamins and electrolytes. However, it is also high in sugar, which can be a cause for concern for some breastfeeding moms.
The Pros and Cons of Drinking BodyArmor While Breastfeeding
Pros
One of the biggest advantages of drinking BodyArmor while breastfeeding is that it can help to replenish lost electrolytes. When you breastfeed, you lose fluids and electrolytes through sweat and urine, so staying hydrated is important. BodyArmor can help you to stay hydrated and keep your electrolyte levels in balance.
Additionally, BodyArmor can provide a source of vitamins that can be difficult to obtain through diet alone. For example, it contains high levels of vitamin C, which is important for immune system function.
Cons
Despite the benefits of drinking BodyArmor, there are also some downsides to consider. One of the biggest issues with BodyArmor is that it contains high levels of sugar. The American Heart Association recommends that women limit their sugar intake to no more than 6 teaspoons per day, but one bottle of BodyArmor contains 17 grams of sugar – more than twice the recommended amount.
High sugar intake can have negative consequences for breastfeeding moms, including an increased risk of tooth decay and weight gain. Additionally, if your baby is showing signs of colic or other digestive issues, consuming large amounts of sugar may exacerbate these symptoms.
The Bottom Line
So, is BodyArmor good for breastfeeding moms? The answer is that it depends on your individual circumstances. If you are looking for a way to replenish lost electrolytes and get a boost of vitamins, BodyArmor can be a good choice. However, if you are concerned about your sugar intake or your baby is showing signs of digestive issues, you may want to choose a different beverage or consume BodyArmor in moderation.
Common Questions and Answers
Here are some of the most common questions that breastfeeding moms may have about BodyArmor:
- Can I drink BodyArmor while pregnant?
- It is generally safe to consume BodyArmor while pregnant, but it is important to talk to your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet.
- Can BodyArmor increase my milk supply?
- There is no evidence to suggest that BodyArmor can increase milk supply, but staying hydrated is important for maintaining a healthy milk supply.
- How much BodyArmor is safe to consume while breastfeeding?
- It is recommended that breastfeeding moms limit their caffeine and sugar intake, so consuming BodyArmor in moderation is best. You may also want to consider diluting it with water to reduce the sugar content.
- What are some alternative beverages to BodyArmor?
- There are many alternatives to BodyArmor that can provide hydration and electrolytes, including coconut water, infused water, and homemade electrolyte drinks.
References:
Nutrition facts of regular BodyArmor. (n.d.). Retrieved August 19, 2021, from https://www.drinkbodyarmor.com/wp-content/themes/bodyarmor/static/pdf/nutrition-facts-bodyarmor-original.pdf
Sugar 101. (2021, January 8). American Heart Association. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sugar/sugar-101
Taylor, J. (2017, May 12). What breastfeeding moms should know about staying hydrated. Today’s Parent. https://www.todaysparent.com/baby/breastfeeding/what-breastfeeding-moms-should-know-about-staying-hydrated/