A breastfeeding mother should:

• A. Drink at least 4.5 liters of water or other fluids per day.
• B. Consume at least 27mg of iron per day.
• C. Continue to completely avoid cigarettes & recreational drugs.
• D. Reduce their daily caloric intake back to the pre-pregnancy RDA.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the nutritional needs of a breastfeeding mother, which include increased fluid intake, adequate iron consumption, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
2. Step 2: Recognize that drinking at least 4.5 liters of water or other fluids per day helps maintain hydration, which is essential for milk production.
3. Step 3: Note that consuming at least 27 mg of iron per day supports the mother's increased blood volume and prevents anemia during breastfeeding.
4. Step 4: Identify that avoiding cigarettes and recreational drugs is crucial because these substances can harm both the mother and the breastfeeding infant.
5. Step 5: Understand that reducing daily caloric intake back to pre-pregnancy RDA is not recommended during breastfeeding, as energy needs are higher to support milk production.