You're probably aware that while pregnant or breastfeeding, you require more nutrients (calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals). But did you know that electrolytes are especially important at this time of year?
To begin with, macronutrient and micronutrient requirements increase during this time. This is undeniably true, and there are mountains of data to back it up.
One important principle is to avoid severe (and in some cases, even minor) calorie restriction. Calorie restriction, or a daily shortage of food intake below what the metabolism requires, can stunt fetal growth and compromise breast milk quality in metabolically healthy leaner women. It can also deplete the mother's energy and mental focus.
Obviously, breastfeeding electrolyte drinks aren't the only thing pregnant or nursing women should think about. As I previously stated, getting enough calories, particularly protein calories, is critical. Not to mention the vitamins (such as folate) required to fuel a growing child, attention to sleep, stress management, and so on. However, most people overlook electrolytes in this situation. When a woman is pregnant or nursing, she requires a sufficient amount of sodium, potassium, and magnesium to support both herself and her growing child.