Why Does Breast Milk Supply Vary?
Factors like stress, irregular feeding schedules, and changes in diet often play a significant role. It’s perfectly normal and usually your supply will recalibrate on its own as we settle back into our typical rhythm and flow. That being said, sometimes nature can use a little nurture..
Enter Galactagogues – Nature’s Milk Boosters
Galactagogues are natural substances that can help increase breast milk production. They’ve been used for centuries and can be a gentle, effective way to support your lactation journey. Galactagogues come in various forms, including herbs, foods, and supplements.
Common Galactagogues: Some popular options include fenugreek*, oats, brewer’s yeast, and fennel seeds. Each has unique properties that can aid in supporting a robust milk supply.
Incorporating Galactagogues into Your Diet:
Including milk-boosting ingredients in your daily diet can be both simple and delicious. One of our favorite ways to incorporate these superfoods is via the use of tea, which is also a great tactic to introduce a bit of ritual into the everyday. Grab your favorite mug, devote the time it takes for the water to boil for meditation or other self-care practices, and breathe deeply as you pour the warm water over the tea leaves, basking in the gentle aroma and moment of stillness. We are huge fans of Oat Mama’s lactation blends - they are rich in galactogues, contain thoughtfully sourced and organic ingredients and the sachets are made from a plant-based, biodegradable materials!
While galactagogues can be helpful allies in your lactation toolkit, remember that the most effective way to boost supply is efficient milk removal, as milk production is governed by supply and demand (unless you are currently pregnant, but that’s a topic for another day!).
The Bottom Line:
If you’re concerned about your milk supply, consulting with a lactation specialist is always a good idea. Feel free to respond to this email, as we work with several amazing LCs to ensure our practices and content are grounded in evidence-based and up to date information.
A note on *Fenugreek: As is the case with any herb or supplement, it’s crucial to be mindful of what you’re consuming. Fenugreek may trigger allergic reactions in individuals with peanut or chickpea allergies. There’s also a risk of hypoglycemia for those with diabetes and it might interfere with anti-diabetic medications. Further, it could disrupt the effectiveness and dosing of anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs. Pregnant people should avoid fenugreek and it might be harmful for women with hormone-sensitive cancers individuals with thyroid conditions, blood sugar issues (like diabetes), peanut allergies, and those on certain blood clotting medications.