2 Yummy & Natural Ways to Increase the Breast Milk Supply
There are two yummy and natural ways to increase the breast milk supply: through herbs and of course proper diet.
Herbs to increase milk supply
Galactagogues is a general term that encompasses all the herbs that help in successful milk production. Here are some examples:
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Fenugreek
Generally, mothers who use this herb notice an increase in milk production 24-72 hours after intake. Note that this herb has a distinct smell and to know if you are taking the correct dosage, your urine and/or sweat should smell like maple syrup.
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Fennel
Not just effective to boost milk supply, it can also help aid in relieving an upset stomach. You can either drink fennel tea, or eat it as a vegetable. Or you even can add it as a spice when cooking. Fennel also helps in baby’s digestion and reduce a symptom of colic.
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Red Raspberry Leaf
It tremendously helps the uterus recovery from after childbirth.
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Alfalfa
When regularly taken before giving birth, it helps avoid hemorrhage at birth. Whilst, taken regularly after giving birth helps the body recover and produce more milk.
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Blessed thistle
This herb not only increases milk supply but also helps in Postpartum Depression. It is useful for the liver and digestion.
Foods that increase breastmilk supply
The cliche “you are what you eat” goes well too even in breastfeeding. Depending on the food you eat, you increase your chances of producing more milk for your baby.
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Oatmeal
Not only that it is effective in milk production, it also helps lower cholesterol and maintains healthy blood pressure. Also remember that oatmeal is a comfort food and when a mother eats it, it helps her relax which in turn signals her body to produce oxytocin, one of the hormones that help in milk production.
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Spinach
It contains phytoestrogens that promotes the health of breast tissues.
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Garlic
Apparently, a garlicky meal sure helps flavor the breastmilk too! The more the baby enjoys the milk, the more able your breasts become in producing supply.
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Chickpea
It is rich in calcium, B-complex and fiber that is perfect for nursing mothers.
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Hummus
With its main ingredients chickpeas and garlic which are galactagogues, hummus is a powerhouse snack for breastfeeding moms.
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Nuts
The amino acid found in nuts is a needed neurotransmitter for lactation. The best nut to eat to increase milk supply? Almonds.
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Apricot
It contains phytoestrogens as well that balances hormones involved in lactation.
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Salmon
This is a great source of essential fatty acids (EFA) and Omega 3. Integrating this fish to your diet ensures that the milk is packed with nutrients.
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Barley
Aside from aiding in lactation, it also helps you feel hydrated.
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Brown rice
Beside being the hormone stimulants that makes lactation easier, brown rice gives you the extra boost of energy needed as you nurse your baby.
Thanks for the list. Of all that is here, I have only tried Fenugreek. The one that I tried is the capsule. My husband notices that my sweat has a different smell and it is not very nice. :-p But if you want to have a better milk supply, you will endure whatever the side effect is, right?:) Keeping this list handy, the next time I am in need to boost my supply for my second child. Thanks.