Approximately how many additional calories does a breastfeeding woman need per day compared to a non-breastfeeding woman?

During breastfeeding, a woman’s body requires additional calories to support milk production and maintain her energy levels. The recommended increase in caloric intake for breastfeeding mothers is approximately 330 calories per day, as this amount helps to meet the nutritional needs of both the mother and the infant.

Breastfeeding burns calories as the body works to produce and supply milk, and the additional intake helps ensure that the mother can sufficiently nourish her baby without compromising her own health. This caloric increase is important for maintaining maternal strength and facilitating recovery from the physical demands of childbirth while supporting optimal growth and development of the newborn.

Any lower caloric increase would not adequately support these needs, likely leading to insufficient energy levels for the mother or inadequate milk supply. Thus, 330 calories stands as the balanced recommendation for nursing mothers.