Define Micronutrient needs of a lactating mother?
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can have profound influence on the composition of milk. Calcium is a nutrient of special concern, since there are some reports in the literature that if the mother's diet is not adequate, it will be mobilized from her bones. This is especially of concern in case of prolonged lactation. Hence, the RDI for calcium is high for lactating mothers.
The requirements for other nutrients are all increased, reflecting the need for milk production and the need to replenish maternal stores. Folate needs are increased above non-pregnant levels but are not as high as during pregnancy. Iron needs are not increased during lactation because little iron is lost in milk, and in most women, losses are decreased because menstruation is absent. However, if the mother's iron status is poor, supplements of 30 mg of elemental iron per day may be recommended for the first 2 to 3 months of lactation to replete iron stores.
Besides these, water needs during lactation should be paid attention to. An increase in fluid intake does not increase milk volume; however, additional fluid is needed to maintain a normal maternal fluid balance. When fluid intake is low, the mother's urine will become more concentrated to conserve water for milk production. To avoid dehydration and ensure adequate milk production, fluid intake should be increased by about per day.