Yom Kippur Fast - Nursing Mother with a Thyroid Condition | Ill persons during Yom Kippur | Sheilot

Yom Kippur Fast - Nursing Mother with a Thyroid Condition

Question

Hello and blessings. I have a four-month-old baby, and I am exclusively breastfeeding him. He does not receive any formula at all, only breast milk. He is also currently going through the four-month growth spurt, and therefore nurses much more frequently. In addition, after giving birth I was diagnosed with a thyroid disease, which causes me increased thirst and strong trembling in my body when I do not drink or do not eat. What is the halacha for me regarding the Yom Kippur fast? If I must fast as usual, what should I do if in the middle of the fast I feel unwell, or if it seems that the baby is not feeling well, God forbid?

Answer

Hello and blessings 

You should drink in “shiurim” — measured small quantities. 

That is, 40 cc of fluids every 9 minutes. 

It is preferable to drink nourishing beverages such as grape juice, soup broth, and the like, which will provide nourishment and energy in addition to fluids. 

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