How can I control hunger while breastfeeding?

Breast feeding moms need more calories than women not breastfeeding because their bodies are making calorie rich milk. Hunger pangs can be a sign that meals are not frequent enough or that there is a lack of key vitamins and minerals. Eating several small nutritious meals throughout the day is key in preventing these "pangs." At least 6 small meals a day helps. Foods that have a low calorie density in larger portions can increase "satiety" or food satisfaction and thereby decrease the sensation of feeling hungry. Eating generous amounts of fiber rich foods, drinking water during and between meals and eating small portions of foods rich in natural unsaturated fats will also help reduce frequent hunger.