Breastfeeding: New mothers warned about dangers of nutritional deficiency

The hidden risk: Why breastfeeding mums must not overlook Omega-3 Fatty Acids

New research continues to highlight the critical importance of Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), during breastfeeding, yet many Australian mothers may be unknowingly putting their own health and their baby's development at risk by not getting enough.

According to Kristy Petersen, leading nutritionist and scientific lead for Optivance, creator of the highly popular, Mummy Smoothie, Omega-3 deficiencies during lactation are more common than most people realise.

"When a breastfeeding mother doesn't consume enough Omega-3s, particularly DHA, her body will draw on its own stores, often from the brain and eyes, to prioritise the baby's needs," Petersen said. 

"This can leave the mother depleted, leading to increased fatigue, mood disturbances, poor immune function and even longer-term cognitive issues.

"Unfortunately the signs of nutritional depletion are not overtly obvious however the damage caused can be catastrophic."

For babies, the consequences can also be significant. Omega-3s are essential for healthy brain, eye and nervous system development. Insufficient DHA in breast milk has been associated with slower cognitive growth, reduced visual acuity and potential behavioural challenges in early childhood.

"Many women avoid oily fish, don't supplement, or simply don't know how critical Omega-3 intake is while breastfeeding," Petersen said.

"It's a hidden nutritional risk with long-lasting effects."

Petersen stresses that her warning is not about alarmism, but awareness. Ensuring adequate DHA intake, around 200-300mg per day, can protect both baby and mother from deficiency-related complications.

"Whether through carefully chosen food sources or supplementation, Omega-3s should be a non-negotiable part of every breastfeeding mum's diet," Petersen said. 

"It's not just about milk supply or calories, it's about the right nutrients, at the right time, in the right form."

Petersen emphasised that nutrition management isn't something that new mothers should activate once they start breastfeeding. It should start prior to conception, during pregnancy and breastfeeding and continue after the child has stopped breastfeeding.

"Nutrition remains critically important for mothers even after breastfeeding has ended because their bodies are still in a recovery and rebuilding phase. Pregnancy and breastfeeding place significant demands on a woman's nutrient stores, especially iron, calcium, DHA, iodine and B vitamins," Petersen added. 

"After weaning, mothers often experience ongoing hormonal shifts, fatigue and sometimes disrupted sleep, all of which can affect energy levels, mood, and overall wellbeing."

Continuing good nutrition post-breastfeeding supports:

1. Replenishment of depleted nutrients - helping restore bone density, muscle tone and immune function.
2. Hormonal balance - essential for mental health and regulating menstrual cycles.
3. Energy and focus - particularly for mums returning to work or managing the demands of parenting toddlers.
4. Long-term health - reducing risks of chronic diseases like osteoporosis, thyroid disorders and anaemia.

"Put simply, nutrition doesn't stop being important just because breastfeeding does, it's a foundation for a mother's ongoing vitality and wellbeing," Petersen said. 

Accessible delivery methods, such as nutrient-rich smoothies, are becoming increasingly popular as a convenient way for mums to meet their nutritional needs without the burden of hard-to-swallow tablets or meal prep fatigue.

About Optivance Nutrition

Optivance Nutrition is an Australian company dedicated to improving maternal and early childhood health through innovative, science-backed nutritional products. Founded by a team of experts in nutrition, food regulation and public health, Optivance develops easy-to-consume smoothies tailored for pre-conception, pregnancy, breastfeeding and toddler nutrition. With a focus on solving real-world challenges—like supplement fatigue, nausea and fussy eating—Optivance delivers nutrient-dense solutions that support both mother and child during critical stages of development. Manufactured in Brisbane and available nationwide, Optivance is committed to making optimal nutrition accessible, enjoyable and effective for Australian families. Learn more at www.optivance.com.au.