Several factors can affect the body's production of breast milk. These factors include how often the baby is breastfed, the mother's health condition, balanced nutrition, and overall self-care. Proper nutrition is essential for optimal body function and includes sufficient protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. When mothers get enough nutrients, the body will have the resources needed to produce adequate breast milk. Additionally, drinking enough fluids is crucial to good breast milk production.
Beverages help increase breast milk production
Water is essential for maintaining correct body fluid levels, which can impact milk production. In addition, certain beverages can help boost breast milk supply, including:
Fenugreek Tea
Breastfeeding mothers frequently use fenugreek tea, an herbal mixture, to increase their milk production. It has a flavor similar to maple syrup, making it easier to consume.
While numerous studies have been conducted on the effects of fenugreek on breast milk production, scientific evidence is still limited. Therefore, the outcome of consuming fenugreek tea may differ from person to person.
Also read: Nutrition Content In Breast Milk (BSM) And Latest Recommendations According To WHO
Milk thistle Tea
Milk thistle, whose Latin name is Silybum marianum, is a plant known for its potential to support liver health. However, some studies claim that it also provides lactation benefits.
There is limited information on milk thistle's side effects and safety, so you should discuss it with your doctor before taking it.
Moringa leaf tea
Moringa is becoming increasingly popular due to its nutritional richness in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Moringa has been widely used in various countries as an herbal treatment.
Also read: The Natural Ways To Increase Breast Milk (BSM) Production
Based on animal studies, moringa has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and nutrient-rich properties. Moringa leaves increase milk volume by increasing prolactin levels and contributing important proteins.
Oat milk
Oats are a whole grain often recommended for lactating women to help increase milk production. This is due to the beta-glucan fiber in oats, which has been found to stimulate prolactin production in the body.
Regular consumption of oats, whether in oatmeal, cereal, or drinks such as oat milk, can help increase prolactin levels. Prolactin is a vital hormone that supports breast milk production. By boosting prolactin levels, oats can help promote adequate breast milk production.
Before consuming herbal teas that may lead to increased breast milk production, it is crucial to consider the potential safety implications and side effects. It is recommended to seek advice from a qualified medical practitioner or lactation specialist before consuming any herbal products during the breastfeeding period. By doing so, you can ensure that the intake of herbal products is safe and effective while minimizing any potential adverse effects.
You can also ask your doctor to prescribe supplements to help increase milk production or access health consultation services by downloading the Ai Care application via the App Store or Play Store to get other information about breastfeeding.
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- dr. Yuliana Inosensia
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PubMed. (2006). Moringa. [online] Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501899/.
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What to Expect. (n.d.). These 5 Foods Are Thought to Boost Breast Milk Supply — But Do They Really Work? [online] Available at: https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/breastfeeding/foods-that-increase-breast-milk-supply/.
Australia, H. (2021). Increasing your breast milk supply. [online] www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au. Available at: https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/increasing-your-breast-milk-supply.
