During breastfeeding, you feel emotionally connected to your little one. However, many mothers stop breastfeeding partially or completely within a few weeks of starting. The reason they state is “our babies don’t get enough from breastmilk”.
They also try many home remedies and even supplements to boost breastmilk production. If you are one of the new mothers with similar concerns, you are in the right place. In this post, we’ve explained simple tips recommended at a maternity centre in Airoli for increasing breastmilk production.
1. Breastfeed More Often
The easiest way to increase your breast milk production is by offering frequent feeds to your baby. It works on a demand-supply principle. The more your baby suckles your breast, the more milk your body is signalled to produce. Offer breastmilk every 2-3 hours or as frequently as your baby demands. Empty one breast before switching to another. This will help improve the quantity and quality of the feed.
2. Eat a Diet that Boost Breastmilk Production
Galactagogues are known to increase breastmilk production. Here’s what you can try:
Methi (Fenugreek): Methi has many health benefits, such as boosting metabolism, improving digestion, and reducing inflammation. It’s also good for new mothers struggling with low milk supply. Methi is slightly bitter. You can try Methi Kanji, Methi Poori, Methi Powder Roti, and Methi Laddoo to enjoy this breastmilk-boosting food.
Moringa (Drumstick Leaves): Moringa is another effective milk booster. It’s also a good source of Vitamin A and C, iron, and calcium, all of which help you deal with postpartum fatigue. You can add it to Dal, dry vegetables, and soups.
Khaskhas (Poppy Seeds): Khaskhas are known for their calming, soothing, and natural pain-relieving properties. If you experience low breastmilk production issues because of stress or fatigue, give this natural food a try.
3. Stay Hydrated
Research shows that human breastmilk is 87% water. A gynaecologist in Airoli recommends that breastfeeding mothers drink adequate fluids in different forms throughout the day. Instead of drinking water in large quantities at once, sip throughout the day. You can try soups, coconut water, lemon water, milk, buttermilk, kanji, and plain water.
4. Check Baby’s Latch
Sometimes, the problem is not breastmilk production but an improper latch. When your baby doesn’t latch, they don’t get enough milk. When they latch comfortably, they can remove a good amount of breastmilk.
When your breasts are emptied properly, your body will receive signals to produce more milk. The cycle continues. When the latch is good, you won’t feel pain when feeding your baby, and you might also notice your baby gulping.
5. Try De-Stressing Activities
Postpartum stress is real, and it can be the biggest contributor to low breastmilk production. Simple de-stressing activities, such as exercises, meditation, yoga, journaling, and asking your family for help, can make a difference. Take short naps during the daytime or whenever your baby sleeps to calm your body.
Breastmilk production is natural. If you think it’s low, a combination of hydration, offering frequent feeds, pumping, and healthy dietary choices can help.
