Lactation Enriching Foods
In order to produce breast milk for mothers who breastfeed, two main hormones are needed namely prolactin and oxytocin. Prolactin produces milk while oxytocin stimulates milk production. There are also some foods that enhance the production of breast milk and a few are listed below.
Garden Cress Seeds – These are an important source of iron, folic aad, calcium, vitamins C, E and A. Because of its high iron and protein content, it is often given to lactating mothers. The seeds are high in calories and protein, whereas the leaves are an excellent source of vitamin A, C and folate.
Consumption – It can be had ever day early morning with one glass warm water.
Shatavari/Asparagus – This is high in fibre, folic acid, calcium, vitamin A and K. Therefore, it is a super food for nursing mothers.
Consumption – Asparagus can be had in a powder form or just as it is herb.
Fenugreek Seeds – Fenugreek seeds are rich in iron, calcium, vitamins and minerals. Diosgenin, a key compound found in fenugreek seeds has been proven to increase breast milk production.
Consumption – These can be had in the form of ladoos or soak the seeds overnight and have ¡t with 1 glass warm water every morning.
Sesame Seeds – Sesame seeds are an excellent source of calcium and magnesium. It help in the healthy formation of bones of the child and help the mother to nurse her child better.
Consumption – Sesame seeds can be consumed in the form of ladoos, chutneys or as it is with water.
Alfalfa Sprouts – AllaIt a sprouts are highly nutritious and rich in vitamins and minerals.
Consumption – These can be consumed as a boiled salad.
Garlic – it is an excellent galactagogue which helps to stimulate the lactation process.
Consumption: Garlic can be included in the meals, curries. It can also be used with water.
Barley Water – Consuming barley water is a traditional age-old method to improve milk supply. It helps to treat those mothers with chronic low milk supply.
Consumption – Soak the barley seeds in water for three-four hours and drain the water Or boil the seeds in water for a few minutes before drinking ¡t.
DiWCarrom/Fennel Seeds – Dill seeds, carom/ajwain seeds and fennel seeds are also milk inducing foods. These will not only increase the supply of the milk but also will help to improve the digestion of the mother as well as the child.
Consumption – Soak the dill seeds overnight and drain the water. Boil the seeds, strain the water and drink it warm.
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