72 | Protecting your milk supply during the holidays: Tips for surviving Thanksgiving with a breastfed baby

Protecting Your Milk Supply During the Holidays: Breastfeeding Tips for Thanksgiving

In this episode of the Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast, Jaimie Zaki, IBCLC and mom of five, shares essential tips for maintaining milk supply and avoiding common breastfeeding challenges during the holidays. Thanksgiving and other holiday gatherings can be joyful but overwhelming, and it’s common for breastfeeding moms to experience clogged ducts, mastitis, or temporary dips in milk supply due to skipped feeds or stress.

Jaimie busts popular myths, including concerns that herbs in holiday meals or moderate alcohol consumption can tank your milk supply, and offers practical strategies to keep both you and your baby comfortable and fed. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, prioritizing feeds, resting, babywearing, and setting boundaries to protect your milk supply and enjoy your holiday safely.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Common holiday myths about breastfeeding and milk supply

• How to prevent clogged ducts and mastitis during busy family gatherings

• Tips for feeding your baby while staying part of holiday festivities

• Using babywearing to keep your baby close and avoid missed feeds

• Strategies for prioritizing rest and self-care while postpartum

• How to navigate family dynamics and accept help without guilt

• Practical reminders for maintaining milk supply, even with a hectic holiday schedule

Resources & Links:

Episode on Breastfeeding & Alcohol LISTEN HERE 

FREE Breastfeeding Mistakes Guide - DOWNLOAD NOW

Access the Confident Mama Breastfeeding Academy for step-by-step guidance on protecting your milk supply, managing common breastfeeding struggles, and getting a pain-free latch: littlebearlactation.com/library (use code PODCAST50for a discount)