I've been trying to be judicious about my posting over the past few months,
but what the heck since you asked for my input...yes, I do see a connection.
I think it has to do with the electrolyte balance of both the intestines and
the breast.  We know that women who don't drink enough water or consume
enough salt (NaCl) are prone to repeated plugged ducts (sometimes amenable
to sprinkling NaCl and modified potassium salt substitutes with NaCl & KCl
on food).  I've also seen that insufficient magnesium, calcium and potassium
can inhibit thorough MER and complete draining of the ducts.  There is a
strong connection between the Mg, Ca and K balance and constipations, so I
think this is a fairly reasonable connection although I suspect that the
midwife doesn't know why (just my guess).

BTW, It's nice to be asked for input.

Warmly,
Chris
--
--Chris Hafner-Eaton, PhD, MPH, CHES, IBCLC    [log in to unmask]
INFANT CUISINE AND MOTHER CARE: Lactation Consulting, Perinatal Health
Education and Attachment Parenting Classes for parents and practitioners

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