Breastfeeding Through the Impossible: A Holistic Approach to Nourishing Your Little One

For many moms who are passionate about holistic and natural health, breastfeeding is a top priority. And for some, the journey is smooth and even feels effortless. And then there are those of us who face struggle after struggle- whether it’s latch issues, low supply, oversupply, mental health challenges like postpartum anxiety or depression, or maintaining supply long-term.

And then there are the babies who experience colic, eczema, reflux, digestive issues, and food allergies though breastmilk (not to the actual breastmilk!). If you’re experiencing this, my heart goes out to you- because I’ve been there. I persisted through these challenges and breastfed my daughter until she naturally weaned at 7 years old. Yes, seven years of defying the “impossible” and figuring things out one step at a time. It’s possible for you too.

Now, as a Holistic and Integrative doctor subspecializing in gut health and emotional energetics for the breastfeeding dyad, I look back at our journey and recognize the key steps that transformed our experience. These are the same steps I guide my clients through as they navigate their own breastfeeding and healing journeys.

I also have a free Holistic Breastfeeding Guide with over 30 resources that you can access here: https://bit.ly/HolisticBreastfeeding

Trusting My Intuition: Our Breastfeeding Journey

When my daughter was born, I was determined to make breastfeeding work, despite having postpartum pre-eclampsia and an extended hospital stay. I saw four different lactation consultants during that time. My daughter had a side preference, and her latch felt strange- especially on my left side.

Every professional I saw told me it was normal, that she just needed time, and they helped with positioning. One even checked her mouth and confidently stated that she did not have oral ties. I trusted the experts and ignored my intuition, even though my research kept pointing me back to the possibility of oral restrictions.

Meanwhile, breastfeeding continued to be painful, my daughter was spitting up excessively, had digestive issues, and struggled with reflux. The lactation consultant at the pediatrician’s office wasn’t much help either. Finally- after 13 months- something clicked. I knew I needed another opinion. I sought out a highly recommended private practice IBCLC, had bodywork support and at 15 months, we had my daughter’s significant oral ties revised. The results were life-changing: no more pain, no more swallowing air, no more arching her back, and her reflux improved dramatically.

Step 1: Work with an IBCLC (and Get a Second Opinion!)

A what? An IBCLC stands for International Board Certified Lactation Consultant- a provider with advanced training in lactation that goes far beyond other lactation professionals.

While other lactation professionals can be helpful, if you’re feeling stuck, please seek out an IBCLC. And if you don’t get the help you need the first time, get a second opinion!

Not all IBCLCs are the same, and just because someone has credentials doesn’t mean they’re the right provider for you. That’s why I have a free international resource list of highly recommended IBCLCs and other holistic professionals, based on real-life experiences from thousands of moms. You can access it here: https://bit.ly/FindPreferredProviders

‘

Step 2: Food Allergies and Breastfeeding- Yes, You Can Keep Going!

One of the biggest challenges I faced was identifying food allergies through my breastmilk. There were moments I worried that breastfeeding was actually hurting my baby, and I questioned whether I should stop.

This fear is one of the biggest myths pushed by formula companies and many pediatricians. The truth is, for 99% of babies, continuing to breastfeed- even while working through food allergies- is far more beneficial than stopping. Breastmilk provides immune factors, perfect nutrition, and unparalleled postpartum benefits while strengthening the mother-baby bond.

With the right guidance and support, you can continue breastfeeding while identifying and addressing diet. We take a holistic approach, considering mom’s nutrition, mental health, lactation support, and more to create a plan that works for both mom and baby.

I have a free workshop specifically on this topic that you can access here: https://bit.ly/BreastfeedingColicEczemaRefluxAllergies

You’re Not Alone- Help is Out There!

If you or someone you know is experiencing challenges with breastfeeding, please use these free resource and reach out. Support is available, and you don’t have to navigate this alone. My goal is to help align your breastfeeding journey with your values and vision, no matter what obstacles arise.

Dr. Beata Harasim

PT, DPT, FAAOMPT