The period of pregnancy and lactation requires an increased energy requirement in the woman's diet. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding until 6 months of age and continued breastfeeding until 2 years of age. Poor milk production is the most common cause of breastfeeding failure. Lactation aids are usually multi-component formulas. They contain mixtures of various herbal plants that can be potentially dangerous in the course of pregnancy and lactation; therefore, before introducing natural or synthetic galactogogs, medical causes of maternal food shortage should also be ruled out. In addition, pregnant women are among the groups most at risk of foodborn diseases (FBDs). Due to changes in the immune system, they are particularly exposed to microbiological risk and more susceptible to infection with certain pathogens such as Toxoplasma gondii, Listeria monocytogenes, etc. They can pose a risk of miscarriage, preterm labor, stillbirth and fetal development disorders. In turn, the most common gastric ailments during pregnancy are heartburn, vomiting, and constipation. Therefore, a healthy diet and the use of individually selected supplementation will effectively improve the quality of breast milk, reduce ailments, and proper hygiene and processing of food products will prevent potential microorganisms living in food. The following article contains current recommendations for nutrition and the daily need for macro and trace elements in pregnant and naturally breastfeeding women. In addition, the recommended supplementation has been taken into account during this period.

Key words: nutrition, breastfeeding, pregnancy, galactogogue, biliousness.