Ways to Increase Breast Milk Supply
The best way to increase breast milk supply is to eat high calorie dense foods and to breastfeed as often as your baby will. The more the baby suckles, the more the adaptation to produce breast milk. Decrease the formula feeds, as this will automatically decrease the supply of breast milk.
oatmeal has potential to increase a woman’s milk supply. Though the exact science of why this food works is not known, it is believed that the added iron in the woman’s diet, as well as specific components in oat bran, help with milk production. Many nursing mothers have found success trying this.
Applying a warm towel is also great way to increase milk flow. First sterilize two small towels in hot water; let it cool some what, and then apply them to both to the breast. Remove both towels after 3 to 5 minutes and then breast feed. This should increase the flow of milk dramatically.
In addition, it is very important to eat a balanced meal when breastfeeding. This is essential in stimulating milk production. Moreover, the baby is also getting a balanced meal and you are maintaining your health and strength for all the work that the body or better yet, the healing the body must do.
More so, a walk after eating will also increase milk production, because its increase the digestive process and burning energy which increases the secretion of gastric juices.
There is one method that is sure to stimulate milk production – fenugreek seeds and fennel tea are a great for stimulating milk production almost immediately. One can purchase 1 pound of fenugreek seeds at any health food stores. In making it, pour a tablespoon of fenugreek seeds into a small pot, and then add 2 cups of water into the pot. Then turn stove to medium-high heat and boil.
After 15 to 20 minutes remove the pot from the stove and set it aside to brew. Let it brew for about a half hour or until the tea turns dark brown to black before drinking. One can add sugar or honey to taste, however that’s optional.
Cabbage, lauki or bottle gourd, ribbed gourd all help in increasing milk supply also.
Brewer’s yeast, the same yeast that is used in the brewing of beer, is considered to be a good food supplement for people who are stressed. It is high in protein, iron and rich in B vitamins, along with various minerals and trace elements. Many years ago it was commonly recommended that nursing mothers who suspected they had a low milk supply try adding brewer’s yeast to their daily diet. Often mothers have reported that this has helped their milk supply and increased their energy level.
For those who are experiencing a decrease in milk production, don’t lose heart. It may take time but the ways discussed in this article are effective in increasing breast milk supply.
