The Best Breastfeeding Diet: What Should You Eat?

"You wouldn't dream of leaving the house without your diaper bag, so don't leave home without your stock of little yogurts, baby carrots, string cheese, and a water bottle," Somer says. She advises that nursing mothers get hungrier than other moms, so it's wise to be prepared with healthy snacks instead of pigging out at the food court or local convenience store. Remember that you need approximately 500 more calories per day than a non-nursing mom, but those calories still need to come from healthy sources.

"The key is to plan ahead," adds Dr. Sears, who also recommends making your own trail mix with raw nuts and dried fruits, or grabbing some pre-sliced apple wedges. "Keep a case of bottled water in your garage and grab a bottle when you go on errands."