Any questions about breastfeeding? Our Similac? brand panel of experts has your answers. And if you?re looking for advice from moms like you (dads, too), check out our discussion boards and tips and advice section.

Q: Does my baby need to eat anything else besides breast milk?

A: No, your baby shouldn't need to eat anything else besides breast milk, unless it is recommended by your doctor for medical reasons. The AAP, however, suggests all infants and children receive 400 IU of vitamin D daily beginning soon after birth and continuing throughout childhood to strengthen their overall bone health. But, make sure to check with your doctor before making changes to your baby's diet.

Q: What kind of diet is good to follow while I'm breastfeeding?

A: For women who are breastfeeding, an ideal diet includes a well-balanced variety of healthy foods including dairy products, fruits, vegetables, and proteins. Most women can maintain a healthy milk supply while taking in at least 1,800-2,000 calories per day. It's helpful to minimize the amount of empty-calorie foods and eat much more nutrient-rich foods. A good rule is to listen to your body, which will guide you in getting the calories you need. It's also important to talk to your doctor about vitamins and including iron in your diet. The vitamins can make up for any deficiencies that may be in your diet.

When you're breastfeeding, you're still eating for two. If you notice that your baby becomes upset after some feeding, it may be because of something you ate. If this happens, you should talk with your doctor to come up with a plan of action; however, no one food or food group should be eliminated from your diet unless your baby has a very clear reaction to a specific food.

Q: Can I lose weight if I breastfeed my baby?

A: Ah, the craving for the pre-baby body. While we don't recommend crash diets or over-exercising, you can lose weight while breastfeeding?in fact, it will probably happen naturally.

Breastfeeding often helps a mother get back to her pre-pregnancy weight for two reasons. First, the hormones involved in breastfeeding help the uterus shrink back to the size it was before you became pregnant. Second, you have a certain little someone helping you burn extra calories. If you are worried about your diet, encourage yourself to eat healthy foods, which will increase your energy while providing nutritious milk for your baby. Also, many moms find that frequently eating small, nutritious snacks and meals and drinking plenty of fluids help them fight flab.

Aching to bust a move or bust your gut? Go right ahead. Breastfeeding mothers can begin exercising as soon as their doctors give them the a-OK.

Q: I know that I'm going to have to go back to work. How can I continue to give my baby breast milk while I'm away?

A: Your baby can still have breast milk if you express (commonly called pump) your breast milk for bottle feedings. Also, many businesses have established lactation programs to help support breastfeeding mothers when they return to work. You might want to check with your employer to see what is available to help ease the stress of working and breastfeeding.

Q: Can you give me some information about expressing breast milk?

A: We suggest a breast pump or hand expression. Hospital-grade electric pumps with double collecting systems provide the closest imitation of your baby's sucking action and are a great option if you will be pumping on a regular basis. If you're only going to be separated from your baby occasionally, a hand pump should do fine.

Q: What can I do to get Dad involved?

A: Get him to cook, clean, and slave away! Just kidding. (Well, sort of.) The truth is, studies have shown that with a father's support, breastfeeding is more successful and continues for a longer period of time. To start, Dad can be your cheering squad. Not hands-on enough? Dad can also prepare meals, help around the house, and if you're expressing milk, take a turn and bottle feed, which will allow him to bond with baby. All told, Dad's help can give you a much-needed break, not to mention give your home a more positive environment.