Allegra Gast, registered dietitian (RD) and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), discusses the critical role of nutrition during the postpartum period and breastfeeding. She emphasizes the importance of adequate caloric intake, key nutrients, and practical strategies for new mothers to nourish themselves while managing the demands of motherhood. She also debunks common myths surrounding postpartum nutrition, addresses cultural beliefs, and highlights the significance of a supportive healthcare team.
Valid through 6/27/28
Valid through 3/15/27
Valid through 1/31/2028
This enduring activity (Type 741) awards 1.0 CPEUs in accordance with the Commission on Dietetic Registration’s CPEU Prior Approval Program.
Provider approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing. Provider # 1816, 1.0 Contact Hours.
Provider approved by the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians for 1.0 CEs. NDs in Oregon, please see FAQ
Allegra Gast is a functional registered dietitian and an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) dedicated to supporting families through their postpartum health and breastfeeding journeys. She leads a team of registered dietitians and lactation consultants providing virtual consultations to families worldwide. Allegra founded her practice, Aloha Nutrition, while in Hawaii. She now resides in Massachusetts with her husband and four children, including twins.
Disclosure: Allegra is a Needed advisor and has an equity interest in the company.
Identify the specific nutritional requirements of lactating mothers and explain how these differ from non-lactating nutritional needs
Describe how maternal nutrition impacts both breast milk composition and maternal health outcomes during lactation
Recognize key nutrient deficiencies that may occur during lactation and implement appropriate protocols for assessment and supplementation
Formulate practical nutrition guidance that supports breastfeeding goals while accounting for the realities of new motherhood.
National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Choline. Washington, DC: National Academies Press; 1998
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