Here's For the record, I did barely any (if any) HIIT exercise while I was breastfeeding! This was because I simply did not have the physical or mental capacity to do anything beyond caring for my son to the best of my ability. I wish I'd been able to find time to exercise on a regular basis as a nursing mama, but it was something that I really struggled with. This article is designed to share information only, and it is not reflective of my personal breastfeeding journey. It is also not intended to make any mother feel any way about their exercise regime (or lack thereof). Empowered and supported is best.
Are you curious about the impact of exercise on your breast milk? A fascinating study sheds light on this topic, focusing on a key component of breast milk: adiponectin. Adiponectin is known for its role in glucose and fat metabolism, and it's present in human breast milk. Researchers have speculated that higher concentrations of adiponectin in breast milk could help prevent rapid weight gain in infants.
The study, conducted by Holmen, Giskeødegård, and Moholdt (2023), aimed to explore how different types of exercise affect adiponectin concentrations in breast milk. They enrolled 20 participants who were exclusively breastfeeding infants aged 6-12 weeks. The mothers completed three conditions in the laboratory: Moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT), High-intensity interval training (HIIT), and a control condition of No activity (REST).
Breast milk samples were collected at various time points throughout the day, and adiponectin concentrations were measured. The results were intriguing. After HIIT sessions, adiponectin concentrations in breast milk increased significantly one hour post-exercise compared to the resting condition. This finding suggests that HIIT may have a positive acute effect on adiponectin levels in breast milk.
What does this mean for you, as a breastfeeding mama? It indicates that incorporating HIIT workouts into your routine could potentially boost the beneficial components of your breast milk. While more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects on infant growth and metabolism, these initial findings are promising. For me, it is a powerful reminder that breastfeeding and motherhood are healthier when we are supported to take care of ourselves as mothers.
In a study by Rowland (1997), vigorous exercise was found to lead to a temporary increase in lactic acid levels in human milk. For this reason, some mothers report their baby is fussy for a while afterwards, but they do not report any effect on their milk supply or their baby’s growth. Although this could also be attributed to the taste of salt on sweaty skin after exercise.
So, if you're looking to squeeze in some exercise between feedings, consider giving HIIT a try. Remember, it's essential to listen to your body and consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise regimen, especially postpartum.
Stay empowered, stay healthy, and keep nurturing your little one with the best you have to offer!
With love,
Danielle
❤️
Disclaimer: Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your exercise routine, especially during the postpartum period.
References:
Holmen, O. L., Giskeødegård, G. F., & Moholdt, T. (2023). Acute effects of endurance exercise on adiponectin concentrations in human breast milk: A randomized, cross-over study. [Journal manuscript submitted for publication].
Rowland, T. W. (1997). Effects of exercise on lactic acid and potassium concentrations in breast milk. The Journal of Pediatrics, 131(6), 901-906. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0022-3476(97)70012-5