Foods To Help You Increase The Supply of Breast Milk

Breastfeeding is one of the best gifts that a new mother can give to her newborn baby.

Breast milk is highly nutritious for babies, with an optimal balance of fat, sugar, water and protein. All these nutrients are essential for a baby’s physical and mental development.

Breastfeeding also reduces a baby’s risk of developing asthma or allergies, respiratory illnesses and frequent ear infections. It even helps develop a physical and emotional bond between the mother and baby.

* Oatmeal

Oatmeal can also help nursing mothers increase the quantity as well as quality of their breast milk. It stimulates the production of oxytocin, a hormone that helps with the birthing process, bonding with the baby and milk production.

It also helps prevent iron-deficiency anemia, which is common in new moms.

A warm bowl of oatmeal also serves as a comfort food for many women who suffer from stress and depression after childbirth.

* Almonds

Almonds and other nuts, such as walnuts and cashews, are super healthy for nursing mothers. Almonds are packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that are important for the overall health of the mother as well as her newborn baby.

They are also a good non-dairy source of calcium. In addition, the monounsaturated fats in almonds increase the richness of breast milk. They even make a healthy snack to help you stay satisfied between meals.

* Coconut Oil

Extra-virgin coconut oil is also considered healthy for both pregnant and nursing mothers. It contains essential fatty acids such as omega-3 fatty acids that aid the production of hormones responsible for breast milk production.

In fact, these essential fatty acids help in producing fattier and more nutritious breast milk.

Plus, coconut oil has immune-boosting properties and can provide the new mother the much needed energy required to take care of the baby.

* Oranges

The high vitamin C content of oranges is important for breast milk supply. A 2002 study published in the Food and Nutrition Bulletin notes that the vitamin C content of breast milk is significantly correlated with the mother’s intake of vitamin C.

The study highlights the need to increase the consumption of vegetables and fruits rich in vitamin C.

Oranges are also packed with other nutrients, such as vitamins A and B, calcium, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus. It is great for strengthening the immune system and recovering from weight gain due to pregnancy.

* Fenugreek

Fenugreek, both the seeds and leaves, works as an excellent galactagogue to stimulate breast milk secretion. The choline in it ensures proper development of newborn babies. Plus, this herb contains a generous amount of iron, fiber, calcium, and various vitamins and minerals.

It even helps alleviate common post-delivery problems, such as flatulence and body aches.