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Posted by u/body_posi_babeRecipe

Breastfeeding hunger is REAL! Any calorically dense recipes to share?

TL;DR: Looking for high-calorie, protein-rich recipes for breastfeeding hunger. Any suggestions?

Hey everyone, I'm a new mama and let me tell you, breastfeeding has me hungrier than I ever thought possible! I'm lifting and trying to stay healthy, but I also need some seriously calorically dense options to keep me energized and feeling good.

If anyone has go-to recipes that are high in protein and low-key budget-friendly, I'd love to hear them! I'm talking snacks or meals that can fill me up but won't break the bank. I need ideas for stuff I can whip up in under 30 minutes, maybe something I can batch cook for the week? Let's share our favorites and empower each other in this journey! 馃挭

To kick things off, I made a high-protein oatmeal bake the other day that was super filling. Just mix 2 cups of oats, 2 scoops of protein powder, 2 cups of almond milk, and a handful of berries. Bake for 25 minutes at 350掳F. It came out to about 300 kcal per serving with 20g protein! What else is out there? Let's do this!

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u/strong_momma

First off, congrats on the new baby! Breastfeeding really does kick up that hunger level, so you're not alone. For a quick and filling meal, I love making quinoa salad. Just toss cooked quinoa with black beans, diced bell peppers, corn, and avocado. Drizzle with lime juice and a little olive oil. You get a ton of protein and healthy fats, plus it can be made in advance and lasts all week. Just a heads up, if you're batch cooking, consider making it in a big batch so you have enough for those long days. 馃

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u/cardio_kiddo

Honestly, you do you! But just a thought, don't forget to stay hydrated. Sometimes when you're hungry, it's really just your body asking for more water. If u're still hungry after chugging some water, then go for those snacks! But keep a water bottle close, especially when you're busy with the baby. It helps more than you think.

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u/snack_stash

Omg, facts! I was constantly snacking when I was breastfeeding. One of my go-to snacks is peanut butter energy balls. Just mix oats, peanut butter, honey, and a scoop of protein powder. Roll them into balls and chill them in the fridge. They're quick, easy, and keep you full. Plus, you can grab one while juggling the baby! No need for fancy stuff, just mix and munch. 馃挭

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u/keto_bro_2022

A lot of people talk about needing snacks, but don't overlook your meals. Chicken thighs are budget-friendly and packed with calories. Roast them with sweet potatoes and broccoli for a well-rounded meal. Make a big batch on the weekend and you'll have enough for the week. Just track the macros and keep your protein high. Can't go wrong with this combo, really fills you up.

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u/body_posi_babe

Yes! Love this idea! Chicken thighs are so juicy and flavorful. If you want to spice it up, add some herbs and garlic, and maybe a bit of lemon juice. It rly makes a difference. Also, great call on tracking macros, especially when you're managing both a newborn and ur nutrition. If you're looking for an app, I've heard good things about Cronometer for tracking nutrients.

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u/gymratbutchill

Ngl, sometimes you just gotta eat what works for you. I'm all for keeping it simple and healthy, but I sometimes lean into cravings. Got a craving for pizza? Try a cauliflower crust with toppings you love, and boom, you got your calories in without feeling like garbage after. Balance is key, especially while you're busy with the baby. 馃崟

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u/calisthenics_queen

No shame in loving pizza! But don't forget to listen to your body. If you're feeling extra hungry, just focus on whole foods that keep you satisfied. Hummus and veggies or a handful of nuts are also great for quick energy. It's about finding what fuels you best while you're juggling so much. Trust your instincts, mama.

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u/dadbod_to_abs

Lol, if only pizza counted as a food group, right? But real talk, I think people underestimate the power of nuts and seeds. I keep a stash of mixed nuts around for quick energy. They're high in calories, keep you full, and you can munch while you're doing the whole new-mama thing. Just don't go overboard, because those calories add up real quick!

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u/depressedlifter

Yup, I hear you. Honestly, when I was trying to balance everything, I'd forget to eat sometimes. Meal prepping saved my life! Just find a day to cook a big batch of a high-protein meal and freeze it in portions. That way, even when life gets hectic, you've got something ready to go. Helps with mental load too. And no shame in some frozen meals from time to time, if they fit your macros!

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u/crossfit_cook

Totally with you on this! I recommend trying a high-protein smoothie. Just blend a scoop of protein powder with Greek yogurt, spinach, a banana, and some almond milk. It's super nutrient-dense and takes less than 5 minutes. You can even prep the ingredients ahead of time and just toss them in the blender when you're ready. Plus, smoothies are perfect for those crazy busy mornings when you don't have time to sit down for a meal.

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u/powerlifting_gamer

I feel like people underestimate the importance of variety in snacks. You might get bored with the same stuff, which makes it hard to stick to healthy eating. Try different protein bars or even make your own, add in nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. It's a fun little project and super customizable. I mean, you can even theme them around your favorite RPG characters if you want to make it more fun.

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