Will skipping meals at night when hungry during breastfeeding lead to reduced breast milk supply?

　　The lactation period refers to the entire duration from the initiation of breastfeeding after childbirth until breastfeeding is stopped. Generally, not eating when feeling hungry at night during lactation may lead to reduced milk supply. The detailed explanation is as follows:

　　During lactation, breast milk is the primary nutritional source necessary for a baby's growth and development. Breastfeeding frequency is one of the key factors affecting milk production. Feeding on demand is crucial for establishing and maintaining an adequate milk supply. When a baby feels hungry at night, breastfeeding meets this need and stimulates the mammary glands to continue producing milk. If the baby wakes up multiple times during the night requesting to nurse, appropriately responding and meeting these needs can promote milk production and secretion. Lactating mothers need to maintain sufficient fluid intake to ensure normal milk production. Not eating or drinking water when hungry at night may lead to dehydration, which in turn affects milk volume. Therefore, mothers can drink an appropriate amount of water when feeling hungry at night to maintain adequate hydration.

　　Diet also influences both the quality and quantity of breast milk. Lactating mothers should pay attention to balanced nutrition, ensuring sufficient intake of protein, minerals, vitamins, and other essential nutrients. Skipping meals when hungry at night may lead to nutritional imbalances, thereby negatively affecting milk quality and volume. A mother’s physical condition also impacts milk production. Not eating when hungry at night may weaken her overall health, consequently reducing milk supply. Thus, it is important to maintain good physical health, get adequate rest, and replenish nutrients properly to enhance both the quantity and quality of breast milk.

　　During the lactation period, mothers should breastfeed on demand, appropriately meet their baby’s needs, and pay attention to maintaining sufficient fluid intake and a balanced diet.