There are so many foods and fruits that can increase breast milk supply post-pregnancy.
Breastfeeding is crucial for infant nutrition and growth. Breast milk is rich in calories, proteins, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, strengthening the baby’s immune system against infections.
World Health Organisation celebrates World Breastfeeding Week every first week in August because if a child doesn’t take a lot of breast milk, he or she might have nutritional deficiencies and illnesses.
So, what can foods and fruits can boost a new mother’s milk production?
Does Guinness help new mothers increase breast milk?
Does Guinness help milk production?
Many new mothers are advised by ‘old wives’ to drink the popular alcoholic drink, Guinness to increase their milk supply. There is some truth to this, as barley and malt are both excellent lactogenic foods and they are found in Guinness.
Barley is one of the best sources of beta-glucan in the diet. The polysaccharide beta-glucan has been demonstrated to stimulate prolactin, the hormone responsible for lactation.
While brewer’s yeast is used in the manufacture of your favourite beer or bread, it is classified as a galactogogue, which is anything that encourages the production of breast milk.
It’s not only Guinness that has barley, any other malt drink does. A new mother might need to stay away from Guinness since alcohol reduces milk production and a portion of it can be passed on to a child through breastfeeding.
Does pap work?
This local meal made of maize and milk is quite popular among Nigerians. While the meal itself is nutritious, there is no scientific link between pap and breast milk production.
1. Garlic
Garlic is well-known for its lactogenic qualities, which aid in the production of breast milk in mothers. Garlic cloves, minced, should be added to your recipes. Garlic cloves can also be chewed. Note, however, that some babies might be allergic to garlic. Discontinue if you notice it gives your baby gas.
2. Oatmeal
Oatmeal helps milk production [simmertoslimmer]
This iron-rich grain promotes breastfeeding and relieves stress. Oatmeal’s high fiber content fills you up quickly and promotes digestive health. It also contains slow-digesting carbohydrates, which increase your energy and strength.
3. Spinach
Spinach is called efo shoko in Nigeria [Nigerianfinder]
Spinach is popularly called efo shoko in Nigeria.
Health professionals advise breastfeeding mothers to eat spinach. These vegetables are high in iron, calcium, folate, and vitamin K, all of which are beneficial to lactation.
Spinach is especially advantageous due to its high phytoestrogen concentration. These substances act as estrogen mimics in your body, increasing milk production.
4. Carrots
Carrots contain a lot of beta-carotene and vitamin A. Carrot juice is very beneficial for breastfeeding mothers, and drinking a cup shortly before lunch may enhance your afternoon breast milk supply.
Eat a healthy salad of/or juice carrots and beets on a regular basis to enhance the supply of breast milk.
5. Fenugreek
Fenugreek seeds (Photo credit – Fashion lady)
The Yoruba name for fenugreek is “erunje” or “eru.”. Soak one spoonful of fenugreek seeds overnight in one cup of water. Boil the soaked fenugreek seeds in water for five minutes in the morning. To increase your breast milk supply, strain the solution and drink it every morning.
