“Bottles fill his stomach, but breastfeeding fills his soul.” – Diane Wiessinger
Motherhood is always a blessing- and breastfeeding is one of the most beautiful gifts that a new mom gives it to her new born baby. Breast milk is the best source of vitamins and other essential nutrients that a newborn baby needs in his/her first six months of life. It has an optimal balance of invaluable substances, such as –protein, fat, sugar, water and etc. And, these essential nutrients protect infants again infection and disease.
The best thing about breast milk is that its proteins are easily digestible than other forms of milk. However, there are a lot of mothers who want to increase their breast milk supply as they feel they are not producing enough for their babies or they are suffering from low breast milk supply So, if you’re one of them who are facing the same problem, then don’t worry.
In this blog, we will share 5 superfoods with you that help to improve breast milk supply fast & naturally. So, let’s get started!
#1 Fenugreek
These aromatic seeds are completely safe for lactating mothers and their babies as it is an herb that has no side effects. Fenugreek seeds and leaves contain most of the nutrients and estrogen-like compounds that help to increase the breast milk supply. For ancient times, fenugreek seeds have been used by lactating mothers to boost breast milk supply as it contains several flavonoids, vitamins, and phytoestrogen, which stimulates the breast milk ducts to grow.
Ways To Consume
You can consume fenugreek seeds in different forms, including: Fenugreek seeds, Fenugreek tea, Fenugreek oil, Fenugreek supplements, Fenugreek leaves, Fenugreek powder & Fenugreek sprouts.
#2 Fennel Seeds
Fennel seeds are also one of the most effective herbs that help to boost breast milk production. Besides increasing milk supply, fennel seeds are used to reduce gas and colic. Lactating mothers consume these seeds so that they can provide seed benefits to their babies through breast milk.
Ways To Consume
Soak a teaspoon of fennel seeds in a glass of water overnight, and drink it in the morning. You can also brew it in your tea.
#3 Unripe Papaya
When it comes to boosting milk production, we can’t forget unripe papaya. It is considered the best milk production food that can help to boost the production of the Oxycontin hormone, which used to regulate the production of breast milk and increase the milk flow.
Ways To Consume
You can eat unripe papaya by grating it into a salad.
#4 Bitter gourd
Despite the bitter taste, bitter gourd is famous for the health benefits and medicinal properties. It contains essential nutrients that help to increase the milk supply within its bitterness, such as – Vitamin K, Lycopene, Phytochemicals, and Antioxidants.
Ways To Consume
You can make a drink by adding raw bitter gourd, melon, and a little water. Bitter gourd curry and baked chips can also be consumed to attain its benefits.
#5 Beans and Legumes
Beans and legumes are a rich sources of proteins, vitamins, minerals, fiber, micronutrients, and certain phytochemicals, which are good not only for your general health, but also for helping to make sure that you have a healthy milk flow. It is good to include them in the maternal diet during the breastfeeding phase.
Ways To Consume
You can prepare soups, stews and casseroles that feature legumes. Add chickpeas or black beans in your salads.
Conclusion:
Put it simply, there isn’t a lot of evidence to support the idea to increase breast milk by Indian foods. But few studies have proven that certain ingredients might be beneficial to improve the supply or enhance the quality of breast milk. And, plenty of breastfeeding moms believe these ingredients make the difference. So, if you’re one who is looking for the same, you can add a few galactagogues to your menu. But, if you’re one who is struggling with milk supply, so please consult your doctor and lactation consultant.
